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Intracellular Receptor Binding

Meaning

Intracellular Receptor Binding describes the specific molecular interaction where a signaling molecule, typically a lipophilic ligand such as a steroid hormone, passes through the plasma membrane to physically associate with its cognate receptor located within the cell’s cytoplasm or nucleus. This binding event is the critical first step in initiating the genomic effects of many vital hormones. Without successful binding, the hormonal signal cannot be transduced into a nuclear action to alter gene transcription. This step confirms the cell’s responsiveness to the circulating signal.