In hormone signaling, which of the following best describes a target cell?

The best description of a target cell in hormone signaling is a cell that is responsive to a specific hormone. Target cells possess specific receptors that bind to particular hormones, enabling them to respond to the hormonal signals. This responsiveness can lead to various physiological changes, including alterations in metabolism, cell growth, or secretion of other substances.

In contrast, a cell that produces hormones refers to endocrine cells or glands that secrete hormones into the bloodstream but is not necessarily the same as a target cell. A cell that transports hormones generally describes aspects of the circulatory system or specific proteins in the blood, such as albumin or globulins, which carry hormones to their sites of action. Lastly, a cell that stores hormones describes cells that may hold hormones until they are needed, which also does not align with the primary function of target cells in the context of hormone signaling. Therefore, identifying a target cell as one responsive to a specific hormone encapsulates the primary role these cells play in the endocrine system.