Cell Signaling

Front

What is cell signaling?

Back

Cell signaling is the process by which cells communicate with each other to coordinate their activities, often involving the release and reception of signaling molecules.

Front

What is the role of the cell membrane in cell signaling?

Back

The cell membrane acts as a barrier that separates the interior of the cell from the external environment and contains receptors that detect signaling molecules.

Front

What are ligand-gated channels?

Back

Ligand-gated channels are protein channels in the cell membrane that open or close in response to the binding of a signaling molecule (ligand), allowing specific ions to flow in or out of the cell.

Front

What are second messengers in cell signaling?

Back

Second messengers are small molecules that relay signals received at receptors on the cell surface to target molecules inside the cell, amplifying the signal.

Front

What is the function of protein kinases in cell signaling?

Back

Protein kinases are enzymes that transfer phosphate groups from ATP to specific proteins, thereby activating or deactivating them and regulating cellular activities.

Front

What determines if a cell is a target cell for a signal molecule?

Back

A cell is a target cell for a signal molecule if it has specific receptors that can bind to that molecule.

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, leading to a rapid amplification of the signal.

Front

What is the role of cAMP in cell signaling?

Back

cAMP (cyclic adenosine monophosphate) acts as a second messenger that transmits signals from receptors on the cell surface to target molecules inside the cell.

Front

What is the difference between autocrine and paracrine signaling?

Back

Autocrine signaling occurs when a cell targets itself, while paracrine signaling involves a cell targeting nearby cells.

Front

What is signal transduction?

Back

Signal transduction is the process by which a cell converts an external signal into a functional response, often involving a series of molecular events.