Steroid hormone
Steroid Hormone
A Steroid Hormone (pronounced: steh-roid hor-moan) is a type of hormone that is chemically classified as a steroid. Steroid hormones are synthesized from cholesterol and are lipid-soluble molecules. They are involved in a wide range of physiological processes, including immune response, regulation of inflammation, regulation of metabolism, and regulation of blood electrolyte levels.
Etymology
The term "steroid" is derived from "sterol", a compound found in many types of lipids, and the suffix "-oid", which means "resembling" or "like". The term "hormone" comes from the Greek word "hormon", which means "to set in motion".
Types of Steroid Hormones
There are five major classes of steroid hormones: glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, androgens, estrogens, and progestogens. Each class is involved in different physiological processes.
- Glucocorticoids are involved in glucose metabolism and immune response.
- Mineralocorticoids regulate the balance of water and electrolytes in the body.
- Androgens and estrogens are sex hormones that regulate sexual development and function.
- Progestogens are involved in the regulation of the menstrual cycle and pregnancy.
Synthesis and Secretion
Steroid hormones are synthesized in the adrenal cortex and the gonads. The process of steroid hormone synthesis involves several enzymatic reactions that convert cholesterol into the specific steroid hormone. Once synthesized, steroid hormones are not stored in cells, but are secreted into the bloodstream where they bind to specific receptor proteins and exert their effects.
Function
Steroid hormones function by passing through the cell membrane and binding to specific nuclear receptors within the cell. This hormone-receptor complex then binds to specific DNA sequences, regulating the transcription of target genes and thus affecting cellular function.
Related Terms
- Hormone: A chemical substance produced in the body that controls and regulates the activity of certain cells or organs.
- Cholesterol: A type of fat found in your blood. Your body needs cholesterol to build healthy cells, but high levels of cholesterol can increase your risk of heart disease.
- Metabolism: The chemical processes that occur within a living organism in order to maintain life.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Steroid hormone
- Wikipedia's article - Steroid hormone
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