IB Biology: C3.1-Regulation of signaling pathways

Front

What is the mechanism of maintaining a constant internal environment within cells called?

Back

Homeostasis

Front

Why is the internal environment of a cell regulated?

Back

To keep life-sustaining chemical reactions going.

Front

How do cells achieve a stable internal environment?

Back

Through the regulation of cell signaling pathways.

Front

What are the two systems of regulating signaling pathways?

Back

Negative feedback systems and Positive feedback systems.

Front

What happens in a negative feedback process?

Back

An increase in the end-product of a signaling pathway shuts off the start of the pathway, inhibiting production of the end-product.

Front

What happens in a positive feedback process?

Back

An increase in the end-product of a signaling pathway amplifies the start of the pathway, reinforcing or amplifying production of the end-product.