Steroid Hormone Signaling

Steroid hormone signaling is an important mode of cell communication in both animals and plants. Steroid hormones are small, lipophilic molecules derived from cholesterol that can cross cell membranes, where they interact with intracellular receptor proteins. This interaction triggers a cascade of intracellular responses that can influence numerous biological processes including development, metabolism, female reproduction, and the immune response. Research has shown that dysregulation of steroid hormone signaling, such as disrupting the production or action of hormones or their receptors, can have profound effects on the body and can lead to disorders such as infertility and diabetes. In the clinic, steroid hormone signaling can be used to diagnose and treat a wide variety of disorders, and research continues to expand our understanding of how steroid hormone signaling influences health and disease.