Amínósýruhormón

Amínósýruhormón is a term used to describe hormones that are derived from a single amino acid. These hormones are synthesized from a single building block of protein and play a crucial role in various physiological processes within the body. Unlike peptide hormones, which are composed of multiple amino acids linked together, amino acid hormones are much smaller in molecular size.

The synthesis of amino acid hormones begins with specific amino acids being modified through enzymatic reactions. These modifications can include the addition of iodine atoms, as seen in the synthesis of thyroid hormones, or the removal of a carboxyl group, as in the case of catecholamines.

Examples of amino acid hormones include thyroid hormones (thyroxine and triiodothyronine) and catecholamines (epinephrine, norepinephrine, and dopamine). Thyroid hormones, produced by the thyroid gland, regulate metabolism, growth, and development. Catecholamines, produced by the adrenal medulla and neurons, are involved in the body's "fight or flight" response, regulating heart rate, blood pressure, and energy mobilization.

These hormones are generally lipophilic, allowing them to easily cross cell membranes and bind to intracellular receptors. Their actions can be diverse, influencing everything from cellular energy production to mood regulation and stress response. Understanding amino acid hormones is fundamental to comprehending many endocrine functions and their impact on overall health.