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Catabolic Hormone Signaling

Meaning

Catabolic Hormone Signaling refers to the cascade of molecular events initiated by hormones whose principal action is to break down complex storage molecules into simpler substrates, such as glucose and amino acids, to mobilize energy. Key examples include cortisol, glucagon, and adrenaline, which are essential for survival during periods of stress, fasting, or acute energy deficit. While crucial for acute adaptation, chronic or excessive signaling in this pathway leads to the detrimental degradation of essential tissues, notably muscle and bone.