Steroid vs. peptide hormone mechanisms
How does cortisol act on its target cells?
Answer D: explanation for every choice
A
Membrane receptors and second messengers are typical of peptide hormones.
B
Opening ion channels is how many neurotransmitters act.
C
Steroid hormones are made when needed and diffuse out. Peptide hormones are the ones stored in vesicles.
D
Correct. Steroids are lipid-soluble, cross the membrane, and act through receptors that bind DNA.
TakeawaySteroids: intracellular receptors, gene expression, slower effects. Peptides: surface receptors, second messengers, faster.
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Reviewed 2026-11-05 by a medical student. Spot an error? Report it with question ID bb89.