Cytoplasmic vs Genomic Hormonal Responses

Cytoplasmic response location

In the cytoplasm.

Genomic response location

In the nucleus.

Cytoplasmic response speed

Fast — occurs in seconds to minutes.

Genomic response speed

Slow — takes minutes to hours.

Cytoplasmic response mechanism

It modifies existing protein activity (e.g., via phosphorylation).

Genomic response mechanism

It alters gene expression by activating transcription of DNA into mRNA.

Hormone types triggering cytoplasmic responses

Peptide hormones (e.g., insulin, epinephrine).

Hormone types triggering genomic responses

Steroid hormones (e.g., estrogen, cortisol).

Cytoplasmic response duration

Short-term and reversible.

Genomic response duration

Long-term and potentially sustained.

Example of a cytoplasmic response

Glycogen breakdown or ion channel opening.

Example of a genomic response

Increased synthesis of proteins or enzymes.