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Multiple Choice
Why are some body cells responsive to a particular hormone while others are not?
A
Because hormones are only produced in response to signals from all body cells.
B
Because only certain cells have specific receptors for that hormone.
C
Because hormones only reach cells that are located near the endocrine gland.
D
Because all cells can respond to any hormone equally.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the role of hormones in the body. Hormones are chemical messengers produced by endocrine glands that travel through the bloodstream to target cells, influencing various physiological processes.
Step 2: Recognize that not all cells respond to every hormone. The ability of a cell to respond to a hormone depends on the presence of specific receptors on its surface or inside the cell.
Step 3: Learn about hormone-receptor specificity. Hormones bind to their corresponding receptors like a 'lock and key' mechanism. If a cell lacks the receptor for a particular hormone, it cannot respond to that hormone.
Step 4: Clarify why some cells are responsive while others are not. Cells that have the specific receptor for a hormone are called target cells for that hormone. These receptors are proteins that recognize and bind to the hormone, triggering a response inside the cell.
Step 5: Understand the implications of receptor presence. The distribution of receptors across different cell types determines which cells are affected by a hormone. This ensures that hormones exert their effects only on specific tissues or organs, maintaining precise control over bodily functions.