Fat-soluble hormones include several key hormones like estrogen, testosterone, progesterone, cortisol, and thyroid hormones. These hormones are characterized by their ability to dissolve in fats and their water-repelling (hydrophobic) nature.
Examples of Fat-Soluble Hormones
Here's a breakdown of some notable examples:
- Estrogen: Plays a vital role in the female reproductive system.
- Testosterone: The primary male sex hormone, crucial for muscle development and other male characteristics.
- Progesterone: Important for the menstrual cycle and pregnancy.
- Cortisol: Involved in stress response, metabolism, and immune function.
- Thyroid Hormones: Regulate metabolism, growth, and development.
Key Characteristics
Fat-soluble hormones have the following key characteristics:
- Solubility: Dissolve in fats and oils.
- Transport: Often require carrier proteins to travel in the bloodstream.
- Mechanism of Action: Typically bind to receptors inside the cell, affecting gene expression.
- Hydrophobic Nature: Repel water, which influences their transport and interaction with cells.
