Advanced Placement (AP) Biology Practice Exam

What are neurohormones primarily produced by?

1. Nerve cells

2. Adrenal glands

3. The pancreas

4. The thyroid gland

The correct answer is: Nerve cells

Neurohormones are primarily produced by nerve cells, specifically neurons. These specialized cells have the unique ability to synthesize hormones and release them into the bloodstream or target tissues in response to various stimuli. This process allows for rapid signaling and regulation of physiological processes in the body. While other options such as the adrenal glands, pancreas, or thyroid gland produce hormones, they do not primarily produce neurohormones. The adrenal glands produce catecholamines and corticosteroids, the pancreas is associated with insulin and glucagon, and the thyroid gland primarily produces thyroid hormones like thyroxine. Hence, the clear distinction is that neurohormones originate from nerve cells, playing a critical role in the nervous system and endocrine function.