Quick 10Q: Cell Communication

Front

What are ligands in cell communication?

Back

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

Front

How do ligands exhibit cell specificity?

Back

Each cell has different receptors to bind to the ligand.

Front

What is a secondary messenger?

Back

A secondary messenger is a molecule that transmits signals from a receptor to target molecules inside the cell, amplifying the signal. An example is cAMP.

Front

Where does a ligand bind to initiate signal transduction?

Back

A ligand binds to a receptor to initiate signal transduction.

Front

What is a phosphorylation cascade?

Back

A phosphorylation cascade is a series of chemical reactions in a cell where one enzyme activates another by adding a phosphate group, often leading to a cellular response.

Front

What role do protein kinases play in cell signaling?

Back

Protein kinases add phosphate groups to proteins, which can activate or deactivate them, playing a crucial role in signal transduction.

Front

How do steroid hormones differ from protein hormones?

Back

Steroid hormones are hydrophobic and can pass through cell membranes, while protein hormones are hydrophilic and cannot.

Front

What is the function of cAMP in cell signaling?

Back

cAMP acts as a secondary messenger that relays signals from receptors on the cell surface to target molecules inside the cell.

Front

What is the significance of receptor specificity in cell communication?

Back

Receptor specificity ensures that only certain cells respond to specific signals, allowing for precise control of cellular responses.

Front

What is the difference between hydrophobic and hydrophilic molecules?

Back

Hydrophobic molecules repel water and can easily pass through cell membranes, while hydrophilic molecules are attracted to water and require specific transport mechanisms.