Hormonal Regulation of metabolism

Theory: 2 hours/week | ECTS Units: 4

Content – Aim of the course

Hormones are key regulatory molecules that control a variety of biological activities, such as metabolism, growth and reproduction. They control the metabolism of basic biomolecules such as proteins, carbohydrates and lipids. They are the main regulators of metabolism both at the cellular level and at the organ level, ensuring the harmonious regulation of body’s metabolism and physiology in general. They are classified into different categories depending on their chemical nature, the organs of the endocrine system that produce them, the type of their respective receptors and the distance they travel in order to perform their action. The synthesis and secretion of hormones are subject to fine regulation mechanisms. Disruption of synthesis, secretion and mechanisms of action of hormones cause severe metabolic disorders leading to chronic conditions, such as diabetes mellitus and obesity, developmental and reproductive disorders.

The course aims at understanding the mechanisms of synthesis, secretion and action of key hormones that control metabolism and growth. The ultimate goal is to understand the mechanisms of integration of metabolism through the action of hormones. For a better understanding of the above, examples of metabolic disorders associated with disorders in the secretion and action of hormones are shown.

Lecturer