SEX HORMONES Meaning and
Definition
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Sex hormones are a group of chemical substances that play a crucial role in the development, differentiation, and functioning of the reproductive system, as well as the overall maintenance of sexual characteristics in organisms. These hormones are primarily produced by the gonads, which include the ovaries in females and testes in males, as well as by the adrenal glands, located on top of the kidneys.
In males, the primary sex hormone is testosterone, belonging to a class of hormones called androgens. Testosterone is responsible for the development of male reproductive organs during embryonic development, as well as the onset and maintenance of secondary sexual characteristics like increased muscle mass, growth of body hair, deepening of voice, and sperm production.
In females, the main sex hormones are estrogen and progesterone, which fall under a class of hormones called estrogens. Estrogen is vital for the development of female reproductive organs and regulating the menstrual cycle, while progesterone supports pregnancy and prepares the body for possible conception.
These sex hormones, along with others such as luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), play interconnected roles in regulating various aspects of sexual development, reproduction, and normal physiological processes. They also contribute to cognitive functions, bone health, skin quality, and overall well-being in both males and females.
Imbalances or disruptions in sex hormone production can lead to various disorders, such as infertility, menstrual irregularities, and certain types of cancer. Therapeutic interventions, including hormone replacement therapy, are commonly used to address these imbalances and promote optimal health and functioning of the reproductive system.
Common Misspellings for SEX HORMONES
- sex hormones
- aex hormones
- zex hormones
- xex hormones
- dex hormones
- eex hormones
- wex hormones
- swx hormones
- ssx hormones
- sdx hormones
- srx hormones
- s4x hormones
- s3x hormones
- sez hormones
- sec hormones
- sed hormones
- ses hormones
- sex gormones
- sex bormones
- sex normones
Etymology of SEX HORMONES
The word "sex hormones" is derived from the combination of two components: "sex" and "hormones".
1. Sex: The word "sex" originates from the Latin word "sexus", which refers to the act of distinguishing between male and female organisms based on their reproductive functions. In turn, "sexus" is believed to have derived from the Indo-European root "*seks-", meaning "to cut".
2. Hormones: The term "hormone" was formed in the late 19th century from the Greek word "hormōn", which means "that which sets in motion", "excite", or "urge on". It was first used in the context of endocrinology to describe chemical substances that are secreted by various glands in the body and have a regulatory effect on the functions of organs or tissues.
