Final answer:
Autoradiography is used to visually map the distribution of hormone receptors in different tissues, utilizing radiolabeled hormones to understand their function in the body and in disease treatment.
Step-by-step explanation:
The purpose of AUTORADIOGRAPHY in determining hormone receptor distribution is primarily to visualize the distribution of hormone receptors in different tissues. This imaging technique involves using radiopharmaceuticals that are traced within the body to reveal metabolic and physiological functions in tissues. Through the use of radiolabeled hormones that specifically bind to hormone receptors, it is possible to create a visual map of where these receptors are located in various tissues, which is significant for understanding how hormones like thyroid hormones function in different parts of the body and in the identification and treatment of diseases such as cancer.