Cell Communication Review

Front

What are ligands in cell communication?

Back

Ligands are signaling molecules that bind to receptors on target cells to initiate a response.

Front

What are receptors in cell communication?

Back

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

Front

What is the role of cAMP in signal transduction?

Back

cAMP acts as a secondary messenger that activates protein kinases, leading to a cellular response.

Front

Define signal transduction.

Back

Signal transduction is the process by which a cell converts one kind of signal or stimulus into another, often involving a series of molecular events.

Front

What is a vesicle?

Back

A vesicle is a small membrane-bound sac that transports substances within a cell, often containing neurotransmitters.

Front

What are the three main types of cell signaling?

Back

The three main types of cell signaling are endocrine, paracrine, and autocrine signaling.

Front

What is endocrine signaling?

Back

Endocrine signaling involves hormones being released into the bloodstream to target distant cells.

Front

What is paracrine signaling?

Back

Paracrine signaling involves the release of signaling molecules that affect nearby cells.

Front

What is autocrine signaling?

Back

Autocrine signaling occurs when a cell releases signals that bind to its own receptors, affecting its own activity.

Front

What is the function of protein kinases in cell signaling?

Back

Protein kinases phosphorylate target proteins, altering their activity and function in response to signals.