Which hormone is most directly associated with the regulation of mood and emotional balance?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Solution: The correct answer is Serotonin.
Explanation:
☛ Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine or 5-HT) is a key hormone and neurotransmitter that stabilizes mood, feelings of well-being, and emotional balance.
☛ It also plays a vital role in regulating sleep cycles, appetite, digestion, and cognitive functions.
☛ An imbalance or low level of serotonin in the brain is closely associated with conditions like depression and anxiety disorders.
Extra Exam-Relevant Facts:
☛ Adrenaline (Epinephrine): Secreted by the adrenal medulla, it is known as the "fight-or-flight" hormone and rapidly increases heart rate and blood sugar levels during stress.
☛ Thyroxine (T4): Secreted by the thyroid gland, it plays a central role in regulating the body's basal metabolic rate (BMR) and overall growth.
☛ Oxytocin: Often referred to as the "bonding hormone" or "love hormone", it is produced in the hypothalamus, released by the posterior pituitary, and facilitates childbirth and lactation.
☛ Approximately 90% of the body's serotonin is produced and stored in the gastrointestinal tract, synthesized from the essential amino acid tryptophan.
Important One-Liners for Upcoming Exams:
☛ Which gland secretes the emergency hormone adrenaline? → Adrenal medulla
☛ Which amino acid acts as the biological precursor for serotonin synthesis? → Tryptophan
☛ Which hormone primarily regulates the basal metabolic rate (BMR) in humans? → Thyroxine
☛ Which hormone stimulates milk ejection and uterine contractions during childbirth? → Oxytocin
☛ Which hormone regulates the human sleep-wake cycle (circadian rhythm)? → Melatonin