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What is the function of hormones in the body?

  1. To absorb nutrients from food

  2. To provide structural support to tissues

  3. To act as chemical messengers between tissues

  4. To generate electrical impulses

The correct answer is: To act as chemical messengers between tissues

Hormones serve as crucial chemical messengers that facilitate communication between different tissues and organs throughout the body. They are produced by glands in the endocrine system and released into the bloodstream, where they travel to specific target cells or organs to regulate various physiological processes. This includes influencing growth and development, metabolism, mood, immune function, and reproductive processes. Understanding the role of hormones is essential in numerous physiological contexts, such as how insulin regulates blood sugar levels or how stress hormones like cortisol affect the body under duress. Their ability to trigger specific responses according to the body's needs illustrates their integral role in maintaining homeostasis and coordinating complex biological functions.