NEUROHORMONE Meaning and
Definition
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A neurohormone is a type of chemical substance that functions as both a neurotransmitter and a hormone within the nervous and endocrine systems, respectively. It is typically produced by neurons and released into the bloodstream or directly onto target tissues to carry out specific physiological functions.
Neurohormones are unique in that they are synthesized and secreted by specialized nerve cells called neuroendocrine cells, which are found in specific areas of the brain known as neuroendocrine nuclei. These cells combine the characteristics of both neurons and endocrine cells, as they produce neurohormones that are then transported and released to act on distant target cells or organs.
The release of neurohormones into the bloodstream allows them to travel throughout the body, reaching their target tissues and exerting their effects. Furthermore, neurohormones are capable of traversing the blood-brain barrier, which enables them to influence the brain and modulate several behavioral, cognitive, and physiological processes.
Neurohormones play a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, including growth and development, metabolism, reproduction, stress response, and mood regulation. Examples of well-known neurohormones include oxytocin, vasopressin, prolactin, and corticotropin-releasing hormone.
In summary, neurohormones are chemical messengers produced by neurons, which act as both neurotransmitters in the nervous system and hormones in the endocrine system. They facilitate communication between the brain and the body, regulating numerous physiological processes and playing a vital role in maintaining overall wellbeing.
Common Misspellings for NEUROHORMONE
- beurohormone
- meurohormone
- jeurohormone
- heurohormone
- nwurohormone
- nsurohormone
- ndurohormone
- nrurohormone
- n4urohormone
- n3urohormone
- neyrohormone
- nehrohormone
- nejrohormone
- neirohormone
- ne8rohormone
- ne7rohormone
- neueohormone
- neudohormone
- neufohormone
Etymology of NEUROHORMONE
The word "neurohormone" is formed by combining two roots: "neuro" and "hormone".
1. "Neuro" comes from the Greek word "neuron" meaning "nerve". This root is commonly used in scientific and medical terminology related to the nervous system.
2. "Hormone" comes from the Greek word "hormon", which means "setting in motion". It refers to a chemical substance produced by an endocrine gland that is secreted into the bloodstream to regulate various physiological processes and can have an effect on target cells in different parts of the body.
By combining these two roots, "neurohormone" is defined as a chemical substance produced by neurons (nerve cells) that acts as a hormone, affecting the function of target cells in various parts of the body.
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