Which term refers to chemicals produced by the endocrine system?

The term that refers to chemicals produced by the endocrine system is hormones. Hormones are biochemical messengers that are secreted directly into the bloodstream by the glands of the endocrine system, such as the pituitary, thyroid, adrenal glands, and pancreas. They play a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes, including metabolism, growth and development, tissue function, sexual function, reproduction, sleep, and mood.

In contrast, neurotransmitters are chemical substances that transmit signals across synapses in the nervous system, not produced by the endocrine system. Enzymes are proteins that catalyze biochemical reactions, and while they are essential for various bodily functions, they are not part of the endocrine system. Antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system to identify and neutralize foreign objects like bacteria and viruses, which also does not relate to hormone production. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the specific roles that each of these substances plays in bodily function.