neurohormone

[ noor-oh-hawr-mohn, nyoor- ]

noun

, Biochemistry.

1. any of various substances, as antidiuretic hormone, formed in the nervous system and delivered to an effector organ through blood circulation.

neurohormone

/ ˈnjʊərəʊˌhɔːməʊn /

noun

1. a hormone, such as noradrenaline, oxytocin, or vasopressin, that is produced by specialized nervous tissue rather than by endocrine glands

neurohormone

/ nr′ō-hôr′mōn /

1. A hormone that is produced and secreted by neurons and that effects its action on the nervous system. The hormones secreted by the hypothalamus that in turn control the secretions of the pituitary gland are neurohormones.

Word History and Origins

Origin of neurohormone¹

First recorded in 1940–45; neuro- + hormone

Example Sentences

It has been suggested7 that planarian fission is regulated by gradients in metabolic activity, molecular positional cues or neurohormone molecules along the anterior–posterior body axis.

From Nature

It also increases levels of the neurohormone oxytocin, which scientists believe helps increase trust and reduce reactions to traumatic memories.

From Scientific American

But the brown "relaxation" treats contain melatonin, a neurohormone often used as a sleep aid.

From Seattle Times