What is one of the main functions of hormones?

Hormones play a critical role in regulating various physiological processes within the body, one of which is their ability to alter the rate of synthesis of cellular proteins. Hormones, such as insulin, glucagon, and thyroid hormones, act as signaling molecules that bind to specific receptors on cells and initiate a cascade of events that can enhance or inhibit the production of proteins.

When hormones bind to their receptors, they can influence gene expression, which ultimately leads to changes in the synthesis of proteins. For instance, anabolic hormones, like testosterone and growth hormone, can stimulate muscle protein synthesis, while others may promote the breakdown of proteins in specific contexts. This process is essential for various bodily functions, including growth and repair, metabolism, and the response to stress.

The other options presented do not accurately reflect primary functions of hormones. Decreasing enzyme activity is not a general function of hormones; rather, they often enhance or modulate enzyme activity as part of their regulatory role. Disrupting nutrient transport through the cell wall is also not a primary action of hormones; instead, they typically facilitate and regulate transport mechanisms rather than obstruct them. Thus, the selected answer accurately captures one of the core functions of hormones in biological systems.