Difference Between Enzymes and Hormones
The differences between enzymes and hormones are given below in tabular form:
Feature |
Enzymes |
Hormones |
Definition |
Biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions by lowering activation energy |
Chemical messengers that regulate various physiological processes |
Composition |
Mostly proteins, sometimes RNA molecules |
Proteins, steroids, or amino acid derivatives |
Structure |
Tertiary and quaternary structures |
Varied structures depending on type (e.g., peptide, steroid) |
Function |
Catalyze specific biochemical reactions |
Regulate growth, development, metabolism, and reproduction |
Nature of secretion |
Enzyme secretion is not affected by age. |
Hormones secretion is affected by age at the time of puberty. |
Specificity |
Highly specific to particular substrates |
Act on specific target cells or tissues |
Synthesis |
Synthesized by ribosomes in the cytoplasm |
Synthesized in specialized endocrine cells or glands |
Action of Site |
Enzyme act at the site of production. |
Hormones act as different sites. |
Production |
Enzymes are produced from all living cells. |
Hormones are produced from some young cells. |
Transportation |
Enzymes travel through ducts. |
Hormones travel through the blood. |
Mode of Action |
Directly participate in chemical reactions |
Bind to specific receptors on target cells to exert effects |
Examples |
Lipases, Amylase, Maltase, Trypsin, etc. |
Estrogen, Progesterone, Insulin, Growth Hormone, Cortisol, etc. |
Difference Between Enzymes And Hormones
The difference between enzymes and hormones lies in their respective roles and functions within the body. Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions, while hormones are signalling molecules. Studying the enzyme and hormone differences can provide insights into their distinct roles in regulating physiological processes.
In this article, we will cover the difference between enzymes and hormones.
Table of Content
- Enzyme Meaning
- Enzyme Classification
- Hormones Meaning
- Hormone and Their Functions
- Difference Between Enzymes and Hormones
- Conclusion – Difference Between Enzymes And Hormones
- Other Related Articles on Differences
- FAQ on Difference Between Enzymes And Hormones