Membranes and Cell Signaling

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to membranes, cell signaling, and nerve function based on the lecture notes.

Membrane

A thin layer of tissue that covers surfaces, lines cavities, and divides spaces or organs.

Mucous Membranes

Membranes that line body cavities open to the outside, secreting mucus for lubrication and protection.

Serous Membranes

Membranes lining body cavities closed to the exterior, secreting serous fluid to reduce friction.

Cutaneous Membrane

The skin, composed of the epidermis and dermis, acting as a barrier against environmental hazards.

Phospholipid Bilayer

The structure of cell membranes composed of two layers of phospholipids with embedded proteins.

Receptor Proteins

Proteins on cell membranes that bind signaling molecules to facilitate communication and response.

Synovial Membranes

Membranes that line joint cavities and secrete synovial fluid for lubrication and nourishment.

Nerve Impulses

Electrical signals that travel along the axon of a neuron, crucial for communication within the nervous system.

Resting Potential

The state of a neuron when it is not transmitting a signal, with a negative charge inside the cell.

Depolarization

The process during which a neuron becomes positively charged as sodium ions enter the cell.

Neurotransmitters

Chemicals released from neurons that transmit signals across synapses to other neurons or muscles.

Cell Signaling

The process by which cells communicate, responding to external stimuli to regulate activities.

Paracrine Signaling

A form of cell signaling where cells release signaling molecules affecting nearby cells.

Autocrine Signaling

A process where a cell sends signals to itself, regulating its own behavior.

Endocrine Signaling

Cell signaling involving hormones released into the bloodstream to affect distant cells.

Juxtacrine Signaling

Signaling that requires direct contact between signaling and target cells.

Peripheral Neuropathy

A condition characterized by damage to peripheral nerves, leading to various sensory and motor symptoms.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

A chronic disease affecting the central nervous system, marked by the immune system attacking nerve fibers.

Parkinson's Disease

A neurodegenerative disorder caused by the deterioration of dopamine-producing neurons, leading to motor symptoms.