Cell-Cell Communication AP

Front

What is the function of a protein phosphatase?

Back

A protein phosphatase removes phosphate groups from proteins, which can deactivate or alter their function.

Front

What role do second messengers play in cell signaling?

Back

Second messengers relay signals from the outside of the cell to the inside, facilitating communication within the cell.

Front

Which enzyme is responsible for transferring a phosphate group to a protein?

Back

Protein kinase is responsible for transferring phosphate groups to proteins, activating them.

Front

What event activates a G protein?

Back

The activation of a G protein occurs when GDP is replaced with GTP.

Front

What is a ligand in the context of cell signaling?

Back

A ligand is a signal molecule that binds to a receptor protein on the plasma membrane.

Front

Define signal transduction.

Back

Signal transduction is the process by which a cell responds to external signals through a series of molecular events.

Front

What is the role of G proteins in cell signaling?

Back

G proteins act as molecular switches that relay signals from receptors to target proteins inside the cell.

Front

Explain the difference between a receptor protein and a second messenger.

Back

A receptor protein binds to a ligand on the cell surface, while a second messenger relays the signal inside the cell.

Front

What is the significance of phosphorylation in cell signaling?

Back

Phosphorylation is a key mechanism that activates or deactivates proteins, influencing cellular responses.

Front

How do enzymes like protein kinases and phosphatases work together?

Back

Protein kinases add phosphate groups to proteins, while phosphatases remove them, regulating protein activity.