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Multiple Choice
What is the mechanism of action for lipophilic hormones in the endocrine system?
A
They primarily act by altering the pH of the target cell.
B
They diffuse through the cell membrane and bind to intracellular receptors.
C
They bind to cell surface receptors and activate second messenger systems.
D
They are stored in vesicles and released via exocytosis.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that lipophilic hormones are fat-soluble, allowing them to easily pass through the lipid bilayer of cell membranes.
Recognize that once inside the cell, these hormones bind to specific intracellular receptors, often located in the cytoplasm or nucleus.
Note that the hormone-receptor complex then translocates to the cell nucleus, where it can directly interact with DNA.
Acknowledge that this interaction typically results in the regulation of gene expression, leading to changes in protein synthesis.
Remember that this mechanism of action is distinct from hydrophilic hormones, which bind to cell surface receptors and utilize second messenger systems.