What is the role of hormones in the human body?

Hormones are chemical messengers that are produced by endocrine glands and are released into the bloodstream to act on specific target cells or organs throughout the body. They play a critical role in regulating a wide range of physiological processes, including growth and development, metabolism, reproduction, and behavior.

The endocrine system, which is responsible for producing and regulating hormones, consists of a network of glands located throughout the body, including the pituitary gland, thyroid gland, adrenal glands, and pancreas. Hormones produced by these glands help to maintain homeostasis by regulating the body's internal environment and responding to external stimuli.

Examples of hormones and their functions include insulin, which regulates blood sugar levels, testosterone and estrogen, which play a role in reproductive development and function, and cortisol, which is involved in the body's response to stress.