AP Bio Insta-Review Topic 4.2*: Intro to Signal Transduction

Front

What is signal transduction?

Back

Signal transduction is the process by which a cell responds to external signals, converting them into a functional response.

Front

What is a secondary messenger?

Back

A secondary messenger is a molecule that relays signals received at receptors on the cell surface to target molecules inside the cell. Example: Ca²⁺.

Front

What role does calcium play in muscle contraction?

Back

Calcium binds to proteins in muscle cells, triggering contraction.

Front

Where is calcium stored in muscle cells?

Back

Calcium is stored in the Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (Smooth ER) of muscle cells.

Front

What is a ligand?

Back

A ligand is a signaling molecule that binds to a receptor to initiate a signal transduction pathway.

Front

Do different cells respond to the same signal in the same way?

Back

False. Different cells can respond differently to the same signal based on their specific receptors and intracellular mechanisms.

Front

What is the function of receptors in signal transduction?

Back

Receptors are proteins that receive and bind signaling molecules (ligands), initiating the signal transduction process.

Front

What is the difference between a primary messenger and a secondary messenger?

Back

A primary messenger is the initial signaling molecule (e.g., hormone), while a secondary messenger is generated in response to the primary messenger and amplifies the signal.

Front

Can ligands travel through the cell membrane?

Back

No, ligands typically bind to receptors on the cell surface and do not enter the cell.

Front

What is the role of the Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum in muscle cells?

Back

The Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum stores calcium ions, which are essential for muscle contraction.