Cell-to-Cell Communication

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to cell-to-cell communication, focusing on the types of signals, their pathways, and cellular responses.

Electrical signals

Changes in membrane potential that serve as a cell communication mechanism.

Chemical signals

Chemicals secreted by cells that bind to target cells to transmit signals.

Gap junctions

Adhesive proteins that form channels between cells allowing small molecules and ions to diffuse.

Autocrine signals

Chemical signals that act on the same cell that secretes them.

Paracrine signals

Chemical signals that act on neighboring cells.

Endocrine system

A system where glands secrete hormones into the blood to carry signals long distances.

Neurotransmitters

Chemicals released by neurons to transmit signals across synapses.

Ligand

A signal molecule that binds to a receptor to initiate a signaling pathway.

Second messenger

Molecules that relay signals received at receptors to target molecules inside the cell.

Phospholipase C

An enzyme activated by G-protein linked receptors that converts PIP2 to IP3 and DAG.

Calcium as a signaling molecule

A key intracellular messenger that can enter cells through ion channels or be released from the endoplasmic reticulum.

Cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)

A second messenger produced from ATP that plays a role in signal transduction.

Beta adrenergic receptor

A type of receptor that, when activated by epinephrine, causes smooth muscle relaxation.

Nitric Oxide (NO)

A gaseous signaling molecule that causes relaxation in smooth muscle cells.

G-protein linked receptors

A category of membrane receptors that activate G-proteins to initiate intracellular signaling pathways.

Amplification of signal

The process by which one first messenger leads to the production of multiple second messengers.