Definition

A type of hormone made by the body that helps control the release of other hormones, especially those related to growth and metabolism.

Example

Somatostatin plays a crucial role in regulating insulin and glucagon levels in the body.

Conversation

I was reading about hormones, and I came across somatostatin.

Oh really? What does it do?

It inhibits the secretion of other hormones like insulin and glucagon.

That's interesting! I didn't know one hormone could affect so many others.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Somatostatin is formed from "soma" (from Greek "sōma", meaning body) and "statin" (from Greek "statos", meaning standing or stopping). The word refers to a substance that inhibits or stops bodily functions, particularly in relation to growth hormone release.

Memory Tip

Think of 'soma' meaning body and 'statin' meaning to stop — somatostatin is a substance that stops certain functions in the body.

Visually Confused Words