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Hormone Receptor

Meaning

A Hormone Receptor is a specific protein molecule, located either on the surface of a cell or within its interior, that selectively binds to a particular hormone. This binding event is the critical first step in hormone action, initiating a cascade of intracellular events that ultimately alter cellular function, gene expression, or enzyme activity. The number and sensitivity of these receptors are key determinants of a tissue’s responsiveness to a circulating hormone, influencing the overall biological effect.