Two examples of water-soluble hormones are epinephrine and thymosin.
Water-soluble hormones, unlike lipid-soluble hormones, cannot pass directly through the cell membrane. Instead, they bind to receptors on the cell surface, triggering a signaling cascade inside the cell. Examples include peptide hormones, proteins, glycoproteins, and modified amino acids (like catecholamines).
Here's a brief overview:
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Epinephrine (Adrenaline): This catecholamine hormone is produced by the adrenal glands and plays a crucial role in the "fight-or-flight" response. It increases heart rate, blood pressure, and energy supplies.
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Thymosin: This peptide hormone is produced by the thymus gland and is important for the development and maturation of T lymphocytes (T cells), which are crucial components of the immune system.
Other examples of water-soluble hormones include norepinephrine, melatonin, and calcitonin. In contrast, lipid-soluble hormones such as thyroxine, aldosterone, cortisol, and testosterone can diffuse across cell membranes and bind to intracellular receptors.
