Rapid Communication - Journal of Cell Science and Mutations (2023) Volume 7, Issue 2

The Role of Hormones in Growth and Metabolism

Jing Yang^*

Department of Zoology, Biological Sciences Centre, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

Corresponding Author:

Jing Yang
Department of Zoology
Biological Sciences Centre
University of Alberta, Edmonton
Alberta, Canada
E-mail: jing@albert.ca

Received: 23-Feb-2023, Manuscript No. AAACSM-23-92182; Editor assigned: 24-Feb-2023, PreQC No. AAACSM-23-92182(PQ); Reviewed: 09-Mar-2023, QC No. AAACSM-23-92182; Revised: 14-Mar-2023, Manuscript No. AAACSM-23-92182(R); Published: 20-Mar-2023, DOI:10.35841/AAACSM-7.2.136

Citation: Yang J. The role of hormones in growth and metabolism. J Cell Sci Mut. 2023;7(2):136

Abstract

Introduction

Hormones are essential signaling molecules in the body that play a crucial role in regulating a wide range of physiological processes, including growth and metabolism. These chemical messengers are secreted by various endocrine glands, and their effects are mediated through specific receptors located on target cells. Hormones act on target tissues to modulate cellular responses, and their levels are regulated by complex feedback mechanisms. In this essay, we will explore the role of hormones in growth and metabolism, highlighting the various hormones involved in these processes and their mechanisms of action.

Hormones in Growth

Growth is a fundamental process that occurs throughout the life cycle of an organism, and hormones play a vital role in regulating this process. The primary hormones involved in growth are growth hormone (GH), insulin-like growth factors (IGFs), and thyroid hormones (THs) [1]. GH is produced by the anterior pituitary gland and stimulates growth and cell division in a variety of tissues, including bones, muscles, and organs. GH acts directly on target cells to promote the synthesis of IGFs, which are secreted by the liver and other tissues. IGFs bind to specific receptors on target cells and stimulate cell proliferation and differentiation, leading to growth.

THs, produced by the thyroid gland, also play a critical role in growth and development. THs regulate the expression of genes involved in cell division and differentiation, and their deficiency or excess can lead to significant developmental abnormalities [2]. In particular, THs are required for the normal development of the nervous system, and their deficiency during fetal and early postnatal life can lead to intellectual disability and other neurological disorders.

Another hormone that is involved in growth is insulin, which is produced by the pancreas. Insulin promotes growth by stimulating the uptake of glucose and amino acids by target cells, which are then used for energy production and protein synthesis. Insulin also has anabolic effects, promoting the synthesis of glycogen, lipids, and proteins in various tissues, including muscle and adipose tissue [3].

Hormones in Metabolism

Metabolism is the process by which the body converts food into energy and builds and repairs tissues. Hormones play a critical role in regulating metabolism, and the two primary hormones involved in this process are insulin and glucagon. Insulin, as mentioned earlier, stimulates the uptake of glucose by target cells and promotes the synthesis of glycogen, lipids, and proteins. Insulin also inhibits the breakdown of glycogen and the release of glucose into the bloodstream, thereby reducing blood glucose levels.

Glucagon, produced by the pancreas, has the opposite effect of insulin and promotes the breakdown of glycogen and the release of glucose into the bloodstream, increasing blood glucose levels. Glucagon also stimulates the breakdown of fats and proteins and the synthesis of glucose in the liver, providing a source of energy during times of fasting or low food intake.

Another hormone that plays a critical role in metabolism is leptin, which is produced by adipose tissue. Leptin acts on the hypothalamus in the brain and regulates food intake and energy expenditure. Leptin levels increase with increasing adiposity, signaling to the brain that the body has sufficient energy stores and reducing food intake and increasing energy expenditure. In contrast, low leptin levels signal to the brain that the body is in a state of energy deficit, promoting food intake and reducing energy expenditure [4,5].

Conclusion

In conclusion, hormones play a vital role in regulating growth and metabolism in the body. The primary hormones involved in growth are GH, IGFs, THs, and insulin, which promote cell division, differentiation, and anabolism. In contrast, hormones involved in metabolism include insulin, glucagon, and leptin, which regulate glucose homeostasis, energy storage and expenditure.

References

1. Guillaume H, Chang L. Organization and epigenomic control of RNA polymerase III-transcribed genes in plants. Current Opinion in Plant Biology.2022; 67:102199.

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

2. Philippa M, Zvi Y. Calcium ionophores lead to apoptotic-like changes in tilapia pituitary cells. Gen Comp Endocrinol.1999; 114(1):19-27.

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

3. Tang T, Liu M, Chen Y, et al. Influence of sulfamethoxazole on anaerobic digestion: methanogenesis, degradation mechanism and toxicity evolution. J Hazard Mater.2022;431:128540.

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

4. Nie XP, Yang YF. Toxic effects of erythromycin, ciprofloxacin and sulfamethoxazole exposure to the antioxidant system in Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata. Environ. Pollut. 2013;172:23-32.

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

5. Liang YQ, Jing Z. The progestin norethindrone alters growth, reproductive histology and gene expression in zebrafish (Danio rerio). Chemosphere. 2020;242:125285.

Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref