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Multiple Choice
How can a hormone have effects on some cells but not on other cells?
A
All cells in the body respond equally to any hormone present in the bloodstream.
B
Hormones only affect cells that are physically closest to the gland that secretes them.
C
Cells can choose to ignore hormones based on their energy needs.
D
Only cells with specific receptors for the hormone can respond to it.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of hormones: Hormones are chemical messengers secreted by endocrine glands into the bloodstream. They travel throughout the body to regulate various physiological processes.
Recognize the importance of receptors: Hormones can only exert their effects on target cells that have specific receptors for that hormone. These receptors are typically proteins located on the cell surface or inside the cell.
Explain the hormone-receptor interaction: When a hormone binds to its specific receptor, it triggers a series of intracellular signaling pathways or changes in gene expression, leading to the desired physiological response.
Clarify why other cells are unaffected: Cells that lack the specific receptor for a hormone cannot bind to it, and therefore, they do not respond to the hormone. This ensures that hormones only affect the appropriate target cells.
Summarize the specificity of hormone action: The specificity of hormone action is determined by the presence or absence of receptors on cells. This mechanism allows hormones to regulate processes in a highly targeted and efficient manner.