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Nuclear Receptors

Meaning

A class of ligand-activated transcription factors located within the cell cytoplasm or nucleus that, upon binding to specific lipophilic signaling molecules, directly regulate the transcription of target genes. These receptors are the primary mediators of the effects of steroid hormones, thyroid hormones, and vitamins A and D, making them central to endocrinology and metabolic regulation. Their function allows hormones to exert profound and long-lasting effects on cellular phenotype.