Hormones

Hormones are signalling molecules, secreted by endocrine glands to communicate signals to the rest of the body.

Steriod
Steriod hormones are made from cholesterol ad are lipid suble, and can therefore diffuse their way through cell membranes. They act on the cell's DNA to increase or decrease the production of proteins.

Peptide
Peptide hormones are made the same way as other proteins. They influence the cell by binding to metabotropic receptors on the membrane, generating a second messenger cascade.

Homeostatic
Maintains homeostasis in an organism. For example controlling the concentration of blood, and levels of certain minerals.

Gonodal
Control reproductive functions, sex characteristics.

Glucocorticoids
Important for metabolism and controlling sugar levels in the blood. These hormones are secreted in times of stress. The hormone cortisol is regulated by the hippocampus.