AP Bio Unit 4: Signal Transduction Pathways Flashcard

Front

What is the role of the alpha subunit in the signal transduction pathway?

Back

The alpha subunit activates adenylyl cyclase, leading to the production of cAMP.

Front

What is phosphorylation in the context of signal transduction?

Back

Phosphorylation adds a phosphate group, activating enzymes like phosphorylase.

Front

How does the analogy of Jimi Hendrix playing the guitar relate to signal transduction pathways?

Back

The electric pickup and the receptor both convert external signals into internal messages.

Front

What is the function of adenylyl cyclase in the signal transduction pathway?

Back

Adenylyl cyclase converts ATP to cAMP, initiating the signal amplification.

Front

How is phosphorylase activated in the signal transduction pathway?

Back

Phosphorylase is activated by phosphorylation, allowing it to release glucose from glycogen.

Front

Define signal transduction pathway.

Back

A series of molecular events and chemical reactions that lead to a cellular response following a signal.

Front

What is cAMP and its role in signal transduction?

Back

cAMP (cyclic adenosine monophosphate) is a secondary messenger that transmits signals within cells.

Front

Explain the concept of a secondary messenger in signal transduction.

Back

Secondary messengers are molecules that relay signals received at receptors on the cell surface to target molecules inside the cell.

Front

What is the significance of receptor proteins in signal transduction?

Back

Receptor proteins bind to signaling molecules (ligands) and initiate the signal transduction process.

Front

Describe the phosphorylation cascade in signal transduction.

Back

A series of events where one enzyme activates another through phosphorylation, amplifying the signal.