4.1 Cell Communication Self-Assessment Questions

Front

What is synaptic signaling?

Back

A form of communication between adjacent neurons where neurotransmitters are released from one neuron and bind to receptors on another.

Front

How does synaptic signaling compare to hormone signaling?

Back

Both require binding of a signaling molecule to a receptor.

Front

What are the three stages of cell signaling?

Back

Signal reception, signal transduction, and cellular response.

Front

What is positive feedback in biological systems?

Back

A process where the response to a stimulus enhances or increases the change in the same direction.

Front

How does negative feedback differ from positive feedback?

Back

Negative feedback counteracts changes, while positive feedback amplifies them.

Front

What is a ligand-gated ion channel?

Back

A type of receptor that opens in response to the binding of a signaling molecule, allowing ions to flow across the membrane.

Front

What role do protein kinases play in signal transduction?

Back

They phosphorylate target proteins, which can amplify the signal and lead to a cellular response.

Front

What is phosphorylation?

Back

The addition of a phosphate group to a molecule, often used to activate or deactivate proteins in signaling pathways.

Front

What is the significance of phosphorylation cascades?

Back

They amplify the original signal manyfold, allowing for a stronger and more widespread cellular response.

Front

What is the function of G protein-coupled receptors?

Back

They transmit signals from outside the cell to the inside by activating G proteins.