Hormone receptors
Hormone Receptors
Hormone receptors (/hɔːrmoʊn rɪˈsɛptərz/) are a type of protein that have a specific binding site for a particular hormone. They are found on the surface of cells and inside cells in various organs and tissues.
Etymology
The term "hormone" is derived from the Greek word "hormon," meaning "to set in motion." The term "receptor" comes from the Latin "receptare," meaning "to receive." Thus, a hormone receptor is a protein that receives and responds to a hormone.
Function
Hormone receptors bind to hormones, triggering a specific response in the cell. This response can include changes in gene expression, cell growth, or cell death. The specific response depends on the type of hormone and the type of cell.
Types of Hormone Receptors
There are several types of hormone receptors, including:
- Steroid hormone receptors: These receptors are located inside the cell and bind to steroid hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone.
- Peptide hormone receptors: These receptors are located on the cell surface and bind to peptide hormones such as insulin and growth hormone.
- Thyroid hormone receptors: These receptors are located inside the cell and bind to thyroid hormones such as thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3).
Related Terms
- Endocrine system: The system of glands that produce hormones.
- Signal transduction: The process by which a signal (such as a hormone) is transmitted through a cell.
- Transcription factor: A protein that controls the rate of transcription of genetic information from DNA to messenger RNA.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Hormone receptors
- Wikipedia's article - Hormone receptors
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