AP Biology Cell communication

Front

What does a protein phosphatase do?

Back

Removes phosphates from proteins.

Front

What is a G protein?

Back

A protein on the cytoplasmic side of a membrane that relays signals.

Front

What is a ligand?

Back

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

Front

What are the three stages of cell signaling?

Back

Reception, transduction, and response.

Front

What is the role of a receptor protein?

Back

To bind to specific ligands and initiate a cellular response.

Front

What is signal transduction?

Back

The process by which a signal is converted into a functional response within a cell.

Front

What is a second messenger?

Back

A molecule that relays signals received at receptors on the cell surface to target molecules inside the cell.

Front

What is the function of protein kinases?

Back

To transfer phosphates from ATP to proteins, activating or deactivating them.

Front

What is paracrine signaling?

Back

A form of cell signaling where the target cell is close to the signal-releasing cell.

Front

What is synaptic signaling?

Back

A type of signaling that occurs in the nervous system, where neurotransmitters are released from neurons.