Explain briefly how hormones enter their target cells and exert
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ChatGPT
2 hours ago
their effects.
Hormones are chemical messengers produced by various glands in the body that travel through the bloodstream to target cells. Once they reach their target cells, hormones bind to specific receptors on the cell membrane or inside the cell. This binding triggers a series of biochemical reactions within the cell that ultimately lead to the hormone exerting its effects.
The specific mechanism by which hormones exert their effects can vary depending on the type of hormone and the target cell. Some hormones, such as steroid hormones, can pass through the cell membrane and bind to receptors inside the cell, where they can directly influence gene expression. Other hormones, such as peptide hormones, bind to receptors on the cell membrane, which then triggers a signaling cascade within the cell that leads to the desired response.
Overall, hormones play a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes in the body, including growth, metabolism, reproduction, and stress response. By binding to specific receptors on target cells, hormones can exert their effects and help maintain homeostasis in the body.
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Google Gemini AI
2 hours ago
Hormones
Hormones are chemical messengers that are produced by endocrine glands and travel through the bloodstream to target cells.
Hormone Entry into Target Cells
Hormones enter target cells through two main mechanisms:
1. Cell Surface Receptors:
- Many hormones bind to cell surface receptors on the plasma membrane. - This binding triggers signal transduction pathways inside the cell.
2. Intracellular Receptors:
- Some hormones, such as steroid hormones, can enter the cell and bind to intracellular receptors that reside in the cytoplasm or nucleus.
Hormone Action in Target Cells
Once hormones enter their target cells, they can exert their effects in various ways:
1. Activation of Signal Transduction Pathways:
- Cell surface receptors trigger signal transduction pathways, which involve a series of chemical reactions that activate specific intracellular molecules. - These activated molecules then carry out the hormone's message.
2. Gene Regulation:
- Intracellular receptors, after binding to hormones, can translocate to the nucleus and bind to DNA. - This binding results in the activation or repression of gene transcription, leading to the synthesis of new proteins.
3. Direct Cellular Effects:
- Some hormones, such as insulin, can directly interact with intracellular enzymes or molecules to regulate cellular processes, such as glucose uptake.
Termination of Hormone Action
- Hormone action is terminated by various mechanisms, including: - Hormone degradation by enzymes - Removal of hormone from the bloodstream by the liver or kidneys - Downregulation of hormone receptors on the target cells