How are hydrophobic hormones transported through the body?

• A. They are bound to transport proteins in the bloodstream.
• B. They are stored in vesicles until needed.
• C. They are dissolved directly in the blood plasma.
• D. They are converted into hydrophilic forms for transport.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the nature of hydrophobic hormones: These hormones are lipid-soluble and do not dissolve well in water, which is the main component of blood plasma.
2. Recognize the role of transport proteins: Hydrophobic hormones bind to specific transport proteins in the bloodstream, which helps them remain soluble and be transported effectively throughout the body.
3. Consider the storage mechanism: Hydrophobic hormones are not typically stored in vesicles like hydrophilic hormones, as they can easily pass through cell membranes due to their lipid-soluble nature.
4. Evaluate the possibility of direct dissolution: Hydrophobic hormones cannot dissolve directly in the blood plasma due to their lipid-soluble nature, which necessitates the use of transport proteins.
5. Assess conversion into hydrophilic forms: Hydrophobic hormones are not converted into hydrophilic forms for transport; instead, they rely on binding to transport proteins to travel through the aqueous environment of the bloodstream.