Steroid hormone receptors are proteins found inside cells that bind to steroid hormones, such as testosterone and estrogen. These receptors are crucial for transmitting the effects of hormones, which can influence various biological processes, including growth, metabolism, and reproduction. When a steroid hormone binds to its receptor, it triggers a series of events that can lead to changes in gene expression. Once activated, steroid hormone receptors often move into the cell nucleus, where they interact with specific DNA sequences. This interaction can either promote or inhibit the transcription of certain genes, ultimately affecting how cells function and respond to hormonal signals.