Question

Distinguish between neurotransmitters and hormones, and discuss one example of each found in the human body, describing how each works.

Answer 1

Explanation:

Hormones and neurotransmitters are the different chemical messengers. Hormones are former produced by endocrine glands and neurotransmitters are produced by nervous system.

Hormones are secreted from endocrine system and are released into bloodstream, but hormones act on the distant target cells. Some hormones  like cortisol and melatonin are produced in brain and released in blood and affect other parts of body.

On other hand, the neurotransmitters are released from presynaptic nerve terminal in brain. Neurotransmitters move across synaptic cleft and then move to next neuron. At this site, they bind to specific receptors, causing changes in electrical properties of the target cells, which further can cause different postsynaptic effects. Their have fast actions.

Example of hormones:

Follicle stimulating hormone is released by pituitary gland into bloodstream. FSH is essential to the pubertal development and function of the women’s ovaries and the men’s testes.

Example of neurotransmitters :

Monoamine neurotransmitter, serotonin helps in regulating the mood, sleep and appetite as well as cthe ognitive functions such as memory and attention.