Cortisol
Stress response, blood pressure, glucose regulation.
Source: Adrenal cortex
Knowledge base / hormone reference
The hormone reference guide
A clear starting point for understanding the endocrine system: the glands that make hormones, the signals they send, and the clinical questions that shape interpretation.
23 hormone profiles Educational and reviewed
Start here
How to use this guide
1. Identify the signal. Learn which gland or tissue produces a hormone and what it generally influences.
2. Read the context. A lab value is interpreted alongside symptoms, timing, medications, and related markers.
3. Discuss next steps. Use the guide to prepare questions for a qualified healthcare professional—not to self-diagnose.
Hormone index
Major endocrine signals
Insulin
Moves glucose into cells and supports energy storage.
Source: Pancreatic beta cells
Glucagon
Raises blood glucose between meals.
Source: Pancreatic alpha cells
Thyroid hormones
Metabolic rate, temperature, and energy use.
Source: Thyroid gland
Testosterone
Androgen signaling, sexual function, muscle, and bone.
Source: Testes and adrenal glands
Estradiol
Bone, reproductive, cardiovascular, and brain health.
Source: Ovaries, testes, and adipose tissue
Progesterone
Reproductive signaling and endometrial support.
Source: Ovaries and adrenal glands
DHEA
Adrenal androgen precursor.
Source: Adrenal glands
Growth hormone
Growth, tissue repair, and metabolic signaling.
Source: Pituitary gland
IGF-1
Growth hormone-mediated tissue and metabolic signaling.
Source: Liver and other tissues
LH
Gonadal signaling and sex-hormone production.
Source: Pituitary gland
FSH
Sperm and ovarian follicle development.
Source: Pituitary gland
Prolactin
Lactation and reproductive signaling.
Source: Pituitary gland
TSH
Stimulates thyroid hormone production.
Source: Pituitary gland
Melatonin
Circadian timing and sleep signaling.
Source: Pineal gland
Leptin
Energy stores and appetite signaling.
Source: Adipose tissue
Ghrelin
Hunger signaling and meal initiation.
Source: Stomach and gut
Adiponectin
Insulin sensitivity and lipid metabolism.
Source: Adipose tissue
PTH
Calcium and phosphate regulation.
Source: Parathyroid glands
Calcitonin
Bone and calcium regulation.
Source: Thyroid C cells
Aldosterone
Sodium, potassium, and fluid balance.
Source: Adrenal cortex
Epinephrine
Rapid fight-or-flight response.
Source: Adrenal medulla
Oxytocin
Labor, lactation, and social bonding.
Source: Hypothalamus and posterior pituitary
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