Question

What are hormones? State one function of each of the following
(1) Thyroxine
(2) Insulin

Answer 1

Hint: Hormones are the chemical messengers that are secreted by the endocrine system of the body. There are a number of hormones that are released in the body by the endocrine system. Hormones perform a variety of functions in the body.

Complete answer:
Endocrine system of the body is composed of many endocrine glands or organs. These glands or organs include hypothalamus, pituitary gland, thyroid gland, parathyroid gland, adrenal glands ovaries, testes, pineal gland, pancreas, and thymus. All of these organs/glands produce and secrete chemicals directly into the bloodstream as they do not contain ducts. These chemicals are called hormones.

From blood stream, the hormones are transported to the organs or tissues where they show their effect. The organs or tissues where hormones show their effect are known as target organs. For example – Vasopressin or ADH (Antidiuretic hormone) is a hormone which is produced by hypothalamus in the brain. It is stored and released by the posterior pituitary gland into blood from where it reaches the kidney (its target organ).

> Function of Thyroxine: Thyroxine is a hormone secreted by thyroid gland. It plays an important role in digestion. It controls the movement of food through the digestive tract.

> Function of Insulin: Insulin is a hormone secreted by pancreas. It helps to maintain the normal blood sugar level in the body. Improper secretion of insulin can cause too much or too little blood sugar level.

Note: Hormones are essential chemicals for the body. They control growth, development, metabolism, sexual functions, hunger, thirst, body temperature, stress level and other functions of the body.