What is the function of hormones released by the endocrine system?

The function of hormones released by the endocrine system is primarily to alter metabolic activities within the body. Hormones are chemical messengers that travel through the bloodstream to target organs and tissues, where they can influence a variety of physiological processes. This includes regulating metabolism, growth and development, tissue function, and mood, among other functions.

The endocrine system includes glands such as the pituitary, thyroid, and adrenal glands, each producing different hormones that serve specific roles in maintaining the body's homeostasis. For example, insulin, produced by the pancreas, is crucial for regulating glucose metabolism, while thyroid hormones influence overall metabolic rate.

Understanding this function highlights the importance of hormones in integrated body functions and how they serve as key regulatory factors, distinct from other systems like the nervous system, which primarily handles rapid signaling through nerve impulses.