AP - Cell Communication

Front

What is the role of protein kinases in cell communication?

Back

Protein kinases activate other relay proteins by adding a phosphate group to them.

Front

What is a ligand in the context of cell signaling?

Back

A ligand is a signal molecule that binds to a plasma-membrane protein.

Front

How do protein kinases activate proteins?

Back

Protein kinases activate proteins by transferring a phosphate group to them.

Front

What type of protein is involved in nervous system function and is activated by ligands?

Back

Ligand Operated Ion Channels.

Front

What factors determine whether a signal molecule binds on the surface or enters the cell?

Back

Size, polarity, and ability to cross the membrane.

Front

Define 'second messenger' in cell signaling.

Back

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

Front

What is the function of G-Proteins in cell signaling?

Back

G-Proteins act as molecular switches that relay signals from receptors to other proteins inside the cell.

Front

Explain the concept of signal transduction.

Back

Signal transduction is the process by which a cell responds to external signals through a series of molecular events.

Front

What is the significance of receptor proteins in cell communication?

Back

Receptor proteins bind to specific ligands and initiate a cellular response.

Front

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

Back

Primary messengers are the initial signaling molecules (like hormones), while secondary messengers are molecules that propagate the signal inside the cell.