Hormone Receptors

Definition

Hormone receptors are proteins found on the surface of or inside cells that bind to hormones to facilitate a response in the body.

Scientific / Technical Definition

Hormone receptors are specialized proteins, often located on the cellular membrane or within the cytoplasm, that specifically bind to hormones. This binding initiates a conformational change in the receptor, activating a signal transduction pathway that ultimately leads to a physiological response. These responses include alterations in gene expression, modulation of enzyme activity, or changes in cell behavior.

Benefits

• Allow cells to respond to hormonal signals, enabling processes such as growth, metabolism, and reproduction.
• Play a crucial role in maintaining hormonal balance by regulating the activity of specific tissues in response to hormones.
• Facilitate communication between different organ systems, ensuring coordinated body function.

Examples

• Insulin receptors that help regulate glucose levels in the body.
• Thyroid hormone receptors involved in metabolism regulation.
• Estrogen receptors that regulate reproductive and other health-related functions.

Additional Information

• Importance: Hormone receptors are crucial for the endocrine system's function, enabling cells to perceive and respond appropriately to external hormonal signals which are vital for maintaining homeostasis.

Related Terms

• Endocrine system
• Hormones
• Signal transduction
• Cell membrane
• Ligand

References

• Hormone Receptors Overview - National Center for Biotechnology Information
• The Role of Hormone Receptors in Endocrinology - Endocrine Reviews