Peptide hormones

Peptide Hormones are a class of hormones that are made up of amino acids. They are secreted by various glands in the body and play a crucial role in regulating a wide range of physiological processes.

Overview

Peptide hormones are synthesized as pre-prohormones and are then processed into prohormones. These prohormones are further cleaved to produce the active hormone. The peptide hormones are water-soluble and are unable to pass through the cell membrane. Therefore, they bind to receptors on the cell surface and trigger a cascade of intracellular events.

Classification

Peptide hormones can be classified based on their structure and function. Some of the major classes include Insulin, Glucagon, Growth hormone, Prolactin, Adrenocorticotropic hormone, and Antidiuretic hormone.

Insulin

Insulin is a peptide hormone produced by the beta cells of the pancreas. It plays a crucial role in regulating glucose metabolism by promoting the uptake of glucose into cells.

Glucagon

Glucagon is a peptide hormone that is produced by the alpha cells of the pancreas. It works in opposition to insulin, raising blood glucose levels by promoting the breakdown of glycogen into glucose.

Growth Hormone

Growth hormone is a peptide hormone secreted by the pituitary gland. It stimulates growth, cell reproduction, and cell regeneration in humans and other animals.

Prolactin

Prolactin is a peptide hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland. It plays essential roles in reproduction, including stimulating milk production in women.

Adrenocorticotropic Hormone

Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) is a peptide hormone produced in the anterior pituitary gland. It stimulates the production of cortisol by the adrenal glands.

Antidiuretic Hormone

Antidiuretic hormone (ADH), also known as vasopressin, is a peptide hormone that regulates water balance in the body by reducing the amount of water excreted in the urine.

Function

Peptide hormones play a crucial role in a wide range of physiological processes, including metabolism, growth and development, tissue function, and mood regulation. They act by binding to specific receptors on the surface of target cells, triggering a cascade of intracellular events.

See Also

• Hormone
• Endocrine system
• Amino acid
• Cell membrane
• Receptor (biochemistry)