Types of Hormones

Scientists have identified over 50 hormones in the human body so far, but what are the types of hormones? Read on to find out the answer and other details.

Types of Hormones Based on Chemical Structure

Hormones are chemical substances that coordinate and regulate various functions in the body by carrying messages through the blood to organs, skin, muscles, and other tissues. They are classified based on their chemical structure into three main types:

1. Steroid Hormones

These hormones are produced by the body from cholesterol. They are not water-soluble but can pass through the cell membrane. Examples of this type include sex hormones such as estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone.

2. Amine Hormones

The second type of hormone is derived from amino acids, with some being water-soluble. Examples include thyroid hormones, dopamine, adrenaline, and noradrenaline.

3. Peptide Hormones

This type of hormone consists of three or more amino acids and is water-soluble. These hormones cannot pass through the cell membrane due to the phospholipid bilayer that prevents non-lipid-soluble molecules from entering the cell. Examples include:

• Oxytocin, which plays a role in childbirth.
• Insulin, which helps regulate blood sugar levels.
• Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH), which plays a role in metabolism.

Classification of Hormones Based on the Organ of Origin

Most hormones are produced and released directly into the bloodstream by specialized glands in the body, known as the endocrine system. However, not all organs and tissues that secrete hormones are part of the endocrine system. Other tissues, such as the kidneys, liver, and placenta, also release hormones. Below are the types of hormones based on the tissues and organs responsible for their production:

• Endocrine Gland Hormones

The endocrine system consists of a complex network of glands that produce hormones and release them directly into the bloodstream, targeting specific organs and tissues. Examples include:

• Hypothalamus: A small area connected to the pituitary gland that produces many hormones to control it, such as dopamine, somatostatin, growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH), and oxytocin.
• Pituitary Gland: Located at the base of the brain, it secretes several hormones that control the functions of other endocrine glands, such as growth hormone, luteinizing hormone, prolactin, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).
• Pineal Gland: A small gland in the brain that releases melatonin, which regulates sleep - wake cycles.
• Thyroid Gland: A small butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck under the skin, it secretes hormones that control metabolism, such as thyroxine, triiodothyronine, and calcitonin.
• Parathyroid Glands: There are four parathyroid glands responsible for secreting parathyroid hormone, which is essential for calcium balance in the blood and bone health.
• Pancreas: Located behind the stomach, this organ secretes insulin and glucagon.
• Ovaries: Besides containing eggs necessary for reproduction, each ovary secretes estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone.
• Testes: These produce sperm and testosterone in males.
• Adrenal Glands: Small triangular glands located above the kidneys, they secrete cortisol, aldosterone, androgens, adrenaline, and noradrenaline.

• Hormones from Other Body Tissues

Other organs and tissues in the body may also produce some hormones, such as:

• Adipose Tissue: Body fat, including that under the skin, around internal organs, and between muscles, produces hormones like leptin, angiotensin, and estrogen.
• Liver: This organ functions as both an organ and a gland, performing hundreds of functions and producing hormones such as insulin-like growth factor (IGF) and angiotensinogen.
• Kidneys: Besides their role in filtering blood, the kidneys secrete hormones like erythropoietin and renin.
• Intestines: The intestines secrete hormones responsible for hunger and satiety, such as ghrelin and somatostatin.
• Placenta: During pregnancy, the placenta produces progesterone and estrogen to maintain the pregnancy and support the fetus.

Blazma provides various hormone tests, including Male Hormone Package and Female Fertility Tests.