Question

Which one of the following pairs of hormones are examples of those that can easily pass through the cell membrane of the target cell and bind to a receptor inside it (mostly in the nucleus)?

• A. Thyroxine, insulin
• B. Insulin, glucagon
• C. Cortisol, testosterone
• D. Somatostatin, oxytocin

Answer 1

The correct option is C

Cortisol, testosterone

The correct option is C:

The explanation for the correct option:

1. Cholesterol, which is a significant component of the cell membrane, is the source of steroid hormones including cortisol and testosterone.
2. When these hormones reach their target cells, they separate from their transport proteins and pass through the cell's plasma membrane.
3. It attaches to the receptor mostly in the nucleus of the target cell after crossing the cell membrane, as previously stated in the question of these hormones.
4. The steroid hormones (cortisol and testosterone) first attach to an intracellular receptor protein in the cytoplasm, forming a hormone-receptor complex, which is subsequently transported into the nucleus.

The explanation for the incorrect option:

Option A:

1. Thyroid hormones (TH) have a role in glucose control, however, hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are linked to glucose intolerance.
2. The thyroid glands secrete thyroxine, an iodothyronine encourage that encourages high metabolism, brain development, and temperature regulation.
3. Blood sugar homeostasis and insulin are connected.

Option B:

1. Both glucagon and insulin are key hormones involved in blood glucose regulation (sugar).
2. Our pancreas produces and releases both hormones: glucagon is produced by alpha cells, and insulin is produced by beta cells.

Option D:

1. The delta cells of the Langerhans islets in the pancreas generate somatostatin.
2. It inhibits insulin and glucagon release from nearby beta and alpha cells that secrete the same hormones.
3. The thyroid gland manufactures thyroxine and calcitonin.
4. Pituitary glands generate somatotropin, often known as growth hormone, as well as prolactin, vasopressin, and oxytocin.
5. These hormones, unlike somatostatin, are not synthesized by the pancreas and come from distinct places.

Final answer: Cortisol and testosterone are examples of those hormones that can easily pass through the cell membrane of the target cell and bind to the receptor inside it (mostly in the nucleus).