Wize University Psychology Textbook > Neuroscience
Hormones & The Endocrine System
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Hormones
A hormone is a signaling chemical transported to a distant organ through the circulation to regulate physiology or behavior.
- They bind to protein receptors at the target cell to produce effects.
- Receptors are specific for a particular hormone.
- Some hormones have receptors in nearly all cells, while others are only present in specialized tissues.
Wize Tip
The difference between a hormone and a neurotransmitter is where they are concentrated and how they are delivered. Neurotransmitters are concentrated in the synapse; hormones are diffused throughout the body. Neurotransmitters are delivered through the synaptic cleft; hormones are found primarily in the bloodstream.
Some neurotransmitters also function as hormones, but they are given different names depending on their release and function:
- The neurotransmitter epinephrine is the hormone adrenaline
- The neurotransmitter norepinephrine is the hormone noradrenaline
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Practice: Hormones & The Endocrine System
What is the difference between a hormone and a neurotransmitter?