Unit 6: Signal Transduction & Cell Communication

Front

What is signal transduction?

Back

The process by which a cell responds to external signals through a series of molecular events, leading to a cellular response.

Front

What role do ligands play in cell communication?

Back

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

Front

What is the function of G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs)?

Back

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

Front

Define paracrine signaling.

Back

A form of cell signaling where the target cell is close to the signal-releasing cell, allowing for localized communication.

Front

What is the significance of p53 in cell signaling?

Back

p53 is a tumor suppressor protein that activates DNA repair proteins and regulates the cell cycle in response to stress.

Front

Explain the concept of synaptic signaling.

Back

A type of signaling that occurs in the nervous system where neurotransmitters are released from neurons to communicate with other neurons or target cells.

Front

What are receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs)?

Back

RTKs are a class of cell surface receptors that, when bound by a ligand, activate their intrinsic kinase activity, leading to phosphorylation of tyrosine residues.

Front

How is a cellular response terminated?

Back

By separating the ligand from the receptor, blocking the transduction pathway, or through feedback mechanisms.

Front

What is the role of second messengers in signal transduction?

Back

Second messengers are small molecules that relay signals received by receptors on the cell surface to target molecules inside the cell.

Front

Describe the concept of long-distance signaling.

Back

A type of signaling where hormones are released into the bloodstream to reach distant target cells throughout the body.