What are chemical messengers in the body known as?

Chemical messengers in the body are known as hormones. Hormones are signaling molecules produced by glands in the endocrine system, and they travel through the bloodstream to target various organs and tissues to regulate physiological functions, including metabolism, growth, reproduction, and mood. They play a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis and coordinating complex processes within the body by transmitting signals that elicit specific responses.

Neurotransmitters, while also considered chemical messengers, are primarily involved in signaling between nerve cells (neurons) rather than acting throughout the entire body like hormones do. Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions in the body but do not serve as messengers themselves. Antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system to identify and neutralize pathogens like bacteria and viruses, and they do not function as chemical messengers. Thus, hormones are the correct answer as they encompass the broad range of chemical messengers that maintain communication between different systems in the body.