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Multiple Choice
What can cause upregulation of a target cell's receptors?
A
A constant level of hormone concentration
B
An increase in the concentration of a hormone
C
The presence of a competitive inhibitor
D
A decrease in the concentration of a hormone
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of upregulation: Upregulation is a process where a cell increases the number of receptors on its surface to become more sensitive to a specific hormone or signaling molecule.
Consider the effect of hormone concentration: When the concentration of a hormone decreases, the target cell may respond by increasing the number of receptors to capture more of the hormone, compensating for the lower availability.
Analyze the options: A constant level of hormone concentration typically maintains receptor levels, while an increase in hormone concentration might lead to downregulation, where the cell reduces receptor numbers to avoid overstimulation.
Evaluate the role of competitive inhibitors: The presence of a competitive inhibitor can block receptor sites, potentially leading to upregulation as the cell attempts to overcome the inhibition by producing more receptors.
Conclude with the correct answer: A decrease in the concentration of a hormone leads to upregulation as the cell adapts to capture more of the scarce hormone.