Cell Communication

Front

What is apoptosis?

Back

Apoptosis is a programmed cell death process that occurs in multicellular organisms, characterized by specific cellular changes and ultimately leading to cell death.

Front

What is a ligand in cell communication?

Back

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

Front

What is the role of receptors in cell signaling?

Back

Receptors are proteins on the cell surface or inside the cell that bind to ligands and trigger a response in the cell.

Front

What is autocrine signaling?

Back

Autocrine signaling is a form of cell communication where a cell secretes a signaling molecule that binds to receptors on its own surface, influencing its own activity.

Front

What is paracrine signaling?

Back

Paracrine signaling is a type of cell communication where a cell releases signaling molecules that affect nearby target cells.

Front

What is the difference between autocrine and paracrine signaling?

Back

Autocrine signaling affects the same cell that releases the signal, while paracrine signaling affects nearby cells.

Front

What happens during the termination of a cellular response?

Back

The termination of a cellular response can occur by separating the ligand from the receptor, effectively stopping the signal.

Front

Do all cells respond the same way to the same signal?

Back

No, different cells can respond differently to the same signal due to variations in receptor types and intracellular signaling pathways.

Front

What is the significance of signal transduction pathways?

Back

Signal transduction pathways are crucial for translating external signals into appropriate cellular responses, allowing cells to adapt to their environment.

Front

What is the function of second messengers in cell signaling?

Back

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