Microsomal steroid receptors in target tissues

Abstract

Target tissues contain microsomal receptors for steroid hormones. High-affinity, low-capacity binding sites for steroids are located in the endoplasmic reticulum and do not bind DNA. Studies by diverse groups on the nature and function of these receptors using biochemical and morphological approaches are discussed. The findings indicate that microsomes can be the site of receptor synthesis. Microsomes can also play a role in the control of receptor recycling and/or receptor processing after the complexes exit the nucleus of target cells. Moreover, microsomal receptors may be involved in posttranscriptional actions of steroid hormones.