Definition: Hormones are chemical substances produced in minute quantities by an endocrine gland. The hormones are transported in the bloodstream to target organ(s) where they exert their effects. After the hormones have exerted their effects, they are eventually destroyed by the liver.
2.1 Fate of hormones
· Once the hormones have served their functions, they are eventually destroyed by the liver and excreted by the kidneys.
It is necessary to destroy the hormones to prevent over-sensitisation of target cells. Over-sensitisation of target cells causes the target cells to fail to respond to the hormone stimulus.