Lipid-soluble signaling molecules, such as aldosterone,...

Lipid-soluble signaling molecules, such as aldosterone, cross the membranes of all cells but affect only target cells because (A) only target cells retain the appropriate DNA segments. (B) intracellular receptors are present only in target cells. (C) only target cells have enzymes that break down aldosterone. (D) only in target cells is aldosterone able to initiate the phosphorylation cascade that turns genes on.

Lipid-soluble signaling molecules, such as aldosterone, cross the membranes of all cells but affect only target cells because
(A) only target cells retain the appropriate DNA segments.
(B) intracellular receptors are present only in target cells.
(C) only target cells have enzymes that break down aldosterone.
(D) only in target cells is aldosterone able to initiate the phosphorylation cascade that turns genes on.

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Key Concepts

Lipid-Soluble Signaling Molecules

These are hormones or signaling molecules that can dissolve in lipids, allowing them to cross the plasma membrane easily and enter cells. Their lipophilic nature distinguishes them from water-soluble molecules and enables them to interact with intracellular receptors to exert their effects.

Intracellular Receptors

These receptors are located within the cell, either in the cytoplasm or nucleus, and specifically bind lipid-soluble signaling molecules. Once bound, they typically act as transcription factors, directly influencing gene expression and cellular function, which accounts for the selective action on target cells.

Cell-Specific Signal Transduction

This concept refers to the mechanism by which cells selectively respond to signaling molecules. Even when a signaling molecule can enter all cells, only cells with the appropriate receptor will transduce the signal properly. This specificity ensures that only target cells elicit the intended physiological response.

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