Metabolic Shift Hormones are a class of endocrine signaling molecules that possess the primary function of coordinating major, systemic transitions in the body’s energy substrate utilization, moving the organism between states like anabolism, catabolism, or energy storage. Key examples include insulin, glucagon, and thyroid hormones, which regulate the preference for glucose, fat, or protein as fuel sources. These hormones are essential for maintaining energy homeostasis and adapting to fluctuating nutritional environments.
Origin
This functional grouping is derived from classical endocrinology and metabolism, where hormones are categorized based on their dominant physiological role in energy regulation. The term “shift” emphasizes their role as molecular switches that govern the directionality of energy flow and substrate oxidation in response to feeding or fasting states. This categorization is vital for understanding conditions like insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome, where these shifts become dysregulated.
Mechanism
These hormones act on target tissues like the liver, muscle, and adipose tissue by binding to specific receptors, initiating intracellular cascades that alter the activity of key metabolic enzymes. Insulin, for example, promotes the storage of glucose and fat, shifting the metabolism toward anabolism. Conversely, glucagon promotes gluconeogenesis and lipolysis, facilitating a catabolic shift to mobilize stored energy substrates for use by peripheral tissues. The balance between these hormones dictates the overall metabolic state.
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