Cell Signaling and Signal Transduction

Front

What is a ligand in cell signaling?

Back

A ligand is a molecule that binds to a specific receptor to initiate a cellular response.

Front

What is the role of secondary messengers in signal transduction pathways?

Back

They amplify and relay the signal within the cell.

Front

What are the main components of a signal transduction pathway?

Back

Ligands, receptors, secondary messengers, and target proteins.

Front

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

Back

GPCRs detect molecules outside the cell and activate internal signal transduction pathways.

Front

What is cAMP and its role in cell signaling?

Back

cAMP (cyclic adenosine monophosphate) is a secondary messenger that transmits signals from receptors to target molecules inside the cell.

Front

How do ligand-gated ion channels function?

Back

They open or close in response to the binding of a ligand, regulating the flow of specific ions across the cell membrane.

Front

What is the significance of phosphorylation in signal transduction?

Back

Phosphorylation modifies proteins, altering their activity and function, which is crucial for transmitting signals.

Front

What is the difference between autocrine and paracrine signaling?

Back

Autocrine signaling involves a cell responding to signals it produces itself, while paracrine signaling involves signals affecting nearby cells.

Front

What is signal amplification in the context of cell signaling?

Back

Signal amplification refers to the process where a small number of signaling molecules can produce a large response in the target cell.

Front

What are the potential outcomes of a signal transduction pathway?

Back

Outcomes can include changes in gene expression, cell growth, secretion of molecules, and alterations in cell metabolism.