AP Biology: Unit 4 Review (CED)

Front

What is a signal transduction pathway?

Back

A series of molecular events and reactions that lead to a cellular response after a signal (like a hormone) binds to a receptor.

Front

What is the role of the M checkpoint in the cell cycle?

Back

The M checkpoint ensures that all chromosomes are properly attached to the spindle apparatus before the cell proceeds to divide, preventing nondisjunction.

Front

What happens when a ligand binds to its receptor?

Back

The receptor undergoes a conformational change, which activates the receptor and initiates the signal transduction pathway.

Front

What is the effect of a mutation in a protein component of a signaling pathway?

Back

It can alter the response of the cell to signals, potentially leading to uncontrolled cell growth or other dysfunctions.

Front

What are secondary messengers in signal transduction?

Back

Molecules that relay signals received at receptors on the cell surface to target molecules inside the cell, amplifying the signal.

Front

What is phosphorylation cascade?

Back

A series of chemical reactions during which a series of proteins are phosphorylated in turn, leading to a cellular response.

Front

What is the difference between ligands and secondary messengers?

Back

Ligands are signaling molecules that bind to receptors, while secondary messengers are molecules that relay and amplify the signal inside the cell.

Front

What is gene expression?

Back

The process by which information from a gene is used to synthesize a functional gene product, usually proteins.

Front

What is the significance of cell growth in response to signaling?

Back

Cell growth is a response that can be triggered by growth factors binding to their receptors, leading to cell division and tissue growth.

Front

What is the role of the G1 checkpoint?

Back

The G1 checkpoint assesses whether the cell is ready to enter the S phase and replicate its DNA, checking for DNA damage and cell size.