AP Bio-Unit 4-Cell Signaling-Review (Section 5.6)

Front

What is a cell surface receptor protein?

Back

A protein located on the cell membrane that binds to signaling molecules (ligands) to initiate a cellular response.

Front

What does the term 'apoptosis' mean?

Back

Programmed cell death, a process by which cells intentionally die to maintain health and homeostasis.

Front

Define phosphorylation cascade.

Back

A series of biochemical events in which one molecule is phosphorylated, leading to the phosphorylation of another, amplifying the signal within the cell.

Front

What is quorum sensing in bacteria?

Back

A process by which bacteria communicate and coordinate their behavior based on population density through signaling molecules.

Front

What is a ligand?

Back

A molecule that binds to a receptor to initiate a biological response.

Front

What role do cell surface receptors play in cell signaling?

Back

They detect external signals and transmit information into the cell, triggering a response.

Front

Explain the significance of signal transduction pathways.

Back

They are crucial for cells to respond to external stimuli, allowing for appropriate physiological responses.

Front

What is the difference between apoptosis and necrosis?

Back

Apoptosis is a controlled, programmed process of cell death, while necrosis is an uncontrolled process resulting from injury or disease.

Front

What is the function of second messengers in cell signaling?

Back

They relay signals received at receptors on the cell surface to target molecules inside the cell, amplifying the signal.

Front

Describe the role of G-proteins in cell signaling.

Back

G-proteins act as molecular switches that transmit signals from receptors to other proteins inside the cell.