What type of molecule regulates cellular functions?

Hormones are critical molecules in the body that regulate a wide range of cellular functions. They function as signaling molecules, produced in one location and transported through the bloodstream to target cells or organs, where they elicit specific physiological responses. This regulatory role encompasses various processes, including metabolism, growth, immune response, and mood, among others.

While enzymes, proteins, and carbohydrates play essential roles in cellular processes, they do not primarily serve as direct regulators of cellular functions in the way hormones do. Enzymes act as catalysts for biochemical reactions, proteins perform structural and functional roles within cells, and carbohydrates serve mainly as energy sources or structural components. However, hormones, by definition, specifically control and coordinate different biological functions, showcasing their unique role in cellular regulation.