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Ligand-Activated Transcription Factor

Meaning

A Ligand-Activated Transcription Factor is a specialized protein, typically a nuclear receptor, that resides within the cell and, upon binding to a specific signaling molecule, or ligand, undergoes a conformational change that enables it to translocate to the nucleus to directly regulate gene expression. This crucial molecular mechanism is central to the action of all steroid hormones, such as estrogen, testosterone, and cortisol, as they directly influence the cell’s genetic programming. This highly precise system allows for hormone-mediated, long-term control over cellular differentiation, metabolism, and proliferation.