AP - Cell Communication

Front

What is phosphorylation?

Back

The process of adding a phosphate group to a molecule.

Front

What happens to the intracellular domain of a receptor protein after a ligand binds?

Back

It changes shape, initiating transduction of the signal.

Front

What is the role of second messengers in cell communication?

Back

They relay messages from the inside of the membrane throughout the cytoplasm.

Front

What is the term for when a ligand binds to a target cell?

Back

Reception.

Front

How do protein kinases activate other relay proteins?

Back

By adding a phosphate group to them.

Front

What is a ligand?

Back

A molecule that binds to a receptor to initiate a cellular response.

Front

Define signal transduction.

Back

The process by which a cell converts an external signal into a functional response.

Front

What is the function of a receptor in cell communication?

Back

To bind to specific ligands and initiate a cellular response.

Front

What is the difference between reception and response in cell communication?

Back

Reception is the binding of a ligand to a receptor, while response is the cellular action that follows.

Front

What are G-proteins?

Back

Molecules that act as molecular switches in signal transduction pathways.