Name a hormone secreted by a muscle cell and two hormones secreted by neurons.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that muscle cells and neurons can secrete signaling molecules called hormones or neurohormones that affect other cells in the body.
2. Identify a hormone secreted by muscle cells: for example, muscle cells secrete myokines such as irisin, which is released during exercise and influences metabolism.
3. Identify hormones secreted by neurons: neurons can secrete neurohormones such as oxytocin and vasopressin (antidiuretic hormone), which are produced in the hypothalamus and released by the posterior pituitary gland.
4. Recall that oxytocin is involved in processes like uterine contraction and milk ejection, while vasopressin regulates water balance in the body.
5. Summarize the answer by naming one hormone from muscle cells (e.g., irisin) and two hormones from neurons (e.g., oxytocin and vasopressin).

Key Concepts

Muscle Cell Hormones (Myokines)

Muscle cells can secrete signaling molecules called myokines, which act like hormones. An example is irisin, released during exercise, which influences metabolism and fat tissue. Understanding that muscles have endocrine functions helps identify hormones secreted by muscle cells.

Neuronal Hormones (Neurohormones)

Neurons can secrete hormones known as neurohormones directly into the bloodstream. Examples include oxytocin and vasopressin, produced by the hypothalamus and released by the posterior pituitary. These hormones regulate various physiological processes like water balance and social behavior.

Differences Between Neurotransmitters and Neurohormones

Neurotransmitters act locally at synapses to transmit nerve signals, while neurohormones are released into the blood to affect distant targets. Recognizing this distinction is essential to correctly identify hormones secreted by neurons rather than neurotransmitters.