Cell-Cell Communication part I

Intercellular Communication

The process through which cells communicate with each other. It involves various mechanisms such as gap junctions, direct contact, and chemical messengers.

Extracellular chemical messengers

Substances released by cells that act on other cells; include autocrine, paracrine, and endocrine signals.

Gap Junctions

Channels that bridge the cytoplasm of two cells, allowing for direct passage of ions and small molecules.

Direct Contact

A method of intercellular communication involving specific cell-surface markers that allow transient interactions between cells.

Autocrine signaling

Type of signaling where a cell releases a signaling molecule that binds to receptors on its own membrane.

Paracrine signaling

Local diffusion of signaling molecules that act on nearby cells.

Endocrine signaling

Release of signaling molecules into the bloodstream to affect distant target cells.

Ligand-gated Ion Channels

Receptors that open in response to binding of a ligand, allowing ions to flow through and change the membrane potential.

Enzyme-linked receptors

Receptors that function as enzymes, causing a conformational change leading to substrate phosphorylation.

Nuclear receptors

Intracellular receptors that bind lipophilic hormones and lead to changes in gene expression.

Signal Transduction

The process of communication within a cell in response to an external signal involving receptor-ligand binding and downstream effects.

Modulation of receptor-mediated responses

Mechanisms that adjust the effectiveness of receptors through upregulation or downregulation, affecting cellular responses.