Steroid Hormones Overview and Mechanism

What is the primary precursor molecule from which steroid hormones are synthesized?

Which cellular organelles contain the enzymes necessary for the synthesis of steroid hormones?

How do steroid hormones typically enter a target cell?

What kind of receptors do steroid hormones interact with within the cell?

What is the primary mode of transport for steroid hormones in the bloodstream?

Steroid Hormones Overview

Synthesized from cholesterol, characterized as lipophilic, allowing them to penetrate target cells.
Initiated through enzyme activation: cholesterol converts to pregnenolone, which further transforms into various steroid hormones.
Synthesis involves enzymes located in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and mitochondria of the cells.

Release and Mechanism of Action

Steroid hormones are released from cells immediately after synthesis, ensuring prompt action.
They exert their effects by binding to cytoplasmic or nuclear receptors.
Upon receptor interaction, they activate specific DNA sequences, initiating protein synthesis.

Examples of Steroid Hormones

Notable steroid hormones include cortisol, aldosterone, estrogen, progesterone, androgens, and testosterone.

Transport Mechanism

Steroid hormones circulate in the bloodstream bound to plasma proteins.
They exhibit high-affinity binding to globulin and low-affinity binding to albumin.
Sex hormones specifically bind to sex-hormone-binding globulin as part of their transport system.

Explore the fascinating world of steroid hormones, their synthesis from cholesterol, and how they function within target cells. This quiz covers the process of hormone release, their action mechanisms, and notable examples such as cortisol and testosterone. Test your knowledge on these vital biochemical compounds that play a critical role in human health.