autocoid
/ˈɔːtəˌkɔɪd/
noun
- A substance produced naturally in the body that acts like a hormone, affecting nearby cells or tissues (e.g., histamine, serotonin).
- Histamine is an autocoid that causes allergic reactions like sneezing and itching.
- Serotonin, an autocoid, helps control mood and sleep patterns in the brain.
- Doctors study autocoids to understand how the body regulates inflammation and pain.