A patient has prolonged exposure to a high concentration of a hormone. Which cellular response may reduce the hormone's effect over time?

Correct answer: A. Decreased receptor number

  • A. Decreased receptor number
  • B. Increased receptor number
  • C. Increased hormone synthesis
  • D. Increased target-cell sensitivity

Explanation

Persistent high hormone levels can cause down-regulation, in which target cells reduce the number of receptors available. This lowers cellular responsiveness and helps limit overstimulation.

Submitted by a TestUstad contributor and published by the TestUstad editorial teamLast updated
Report an error

The more specific you are, the faster it gets fixed. A source beats an opinion.

Prefer email? support@testustad.com

About Endocrine System

The endocrine system covers hormone-producing glands including the pituitary, thyroid, parathyroids, adrenals, pancreas, pineal gland, ovaries and testes. It explains hormone classes, target-cell responses, feedback control, and the functions of hormones such as insulin, thyroxine, cortisol, growth hormone and ADH, which is often confused with a kidney-produced substance.

Practise Endocrine System

40 free Endocrine System MCQs from Anatomy and Physiology for Nursing, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.

Discussion

Stuck on an option, or know a faster way to get there? Ask or explain it here.

No comments yet. Be the first to explain this one.

Exams that ask Anatomy and Physiology for Nursing questions like this

Anatomy and Physiology for Nursing is on 4 papers prepared for on TestUstad, and all of them draw the same bank, so this question is worth knowing for every one of them.

More Endocrine System questions