Nuclear receptors

Nuclear receptors are specialized proteins inside cells that detect and respond to certain molecules like hormones (such as estrogen or testosterone). When these hormones bind to the receptors, the receptors change shape and then turn on or off specific genes. This process helps regulate vital functions like development, metabolism, and immune responses. Essentially, nuclear receptors act as molecular switches, translating chemical signals from hormones into changes in gene activity, ensuring the body responds appropriately to different internal and external signals.