Cell Communication Flashcard

Front

What is cell signaling?

Back

Cell signaling is the process by which cells communicate with each other to coordinate their activities and respond to their environment.

Front

What is the first step of cell signaling?

Back

Reception, where the ligand binds to the receptor.

Front

Where do signals that cells communicate with typically come from?

Back

The exterior of the cell.

Front

What are ligands?

Back

Ligands are molecules that bind to receptors to initiate a cellular response.

Front

What is the role of receptors in cell signaling?

Back

Receptors are proteins on the cell surface or inside the cell that bind to ligands and trigger a response.

Front

What are G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR)?

Back

GPCRs are a large family of receptors that detect molecules outside the cell and activate internal signal transduction pathways.

Front

What type of ligands do GPCRs typically bind?

Back

Polar ligands.

Front

What is autocrine signaling?

Back

Autocrine signaling is a form of chemical signaling where a cell targets itself.

Front

What is paracrine signaling?

Back

Paracrine signaling is when a cell communicates with nearby cells through the release of signaling molecules.

Front

What is endocrine signaling?

Back

Endocrine signaling involves the release of hormones into the bloodstream to target distant cells.