What type of hormone is Glucagon classified as?

Glucagon is classified as a pancreatic hormone because it is produced by the alpha cells of the pancreas. Its primary function is to regulate glucose metabolism by promoting the conversion of stored glycogen in the liver into glucose, which is then released into the bloodstream. This action effectively increases blood glucose levels, particularly during fasting or in response to low blood sugar levels.

Pancreatic hormones are a specific category of hormones that include insulin, glucagon, somatostatin, and pancreatic polypeptide, all of which play crucial roles in maintaining glucose homeostasis and metabolic balance in the body. Understanding glucagon as a pancreatic hormone is essential for comprehension of its role in various physiological processes, especially in the context of diabetes and metabolic disorders.

While glucagon is not a steroid hormone or corticosteroid, these classifications refer to a different group of hormones that are derived from cholesterol and have distinct mechanisms and effects. Similarly, thyroid hormones, which are produced in the thyroid gland, have separate regulatory functions affecting metabolism and growth. Recognizing these distinctions helps to clarify the specific role of glucagon within the broader endocrine system.