Lecture 29: Protein Sorting and Cell-Cell Communication III

What is the role of G-Protein Coupled Receptors (GPCRs)?

GPCRs are involved in cell communication by transmitting signals from outside the cell to the inside.

What is a ligand in the context of GPCRs?

A ligand is a molecule that binds to a receptor, such as a GPCR, to initiate a cellular response.

What is the function of cAMP in cell signaling?

cAMP acts as a second messenger that transmits signals from GPCR activation to various cellular processes.

What enzyme converts ATP to cAMP?

Adenylyl cyclase converts ATP to cAMP.

What is the role of phosphodiesterase in relation to cAMP?

Phosphodiesterase breaks down cAMP, thus terminating the signaling pathway.

What is the significance of amplification in cell signaling?

Amplification allows a small signal to produce a large response in the cell.

What is crosstalk in cell signaling pathways?

Crosstalk refers to the interaction between different signaling pathways, allowing for coordinated cellular responses.

What is apoptosis?

Apoptosis is programmed cell death that helps in sculpting tissues, maintaining organ size and shape, and removing damaged or infected cells.

What are the two pathways of apoptosis?

The two pathways of apoptosis are the extrinsic pathway and the intrinsic (mitochondrial) pathway.

What is the purpose of sculpting tissues during apoptosis?

Sculpting tissues during apoptosis helps in shaping organs and removing unnecessary cells.

Why is the maintenance of organ size and shape important?

Maintaining organ size and shape is crucial for proper function and overall organism health.

What triggers the extrinsic pathway of apoptosis?

The extrinsic pathway is triggered by external signals, such as ligands binding to death receptors on the cell surface.

What triggers the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis?

The intrinsic pathway is triggered by internal signals, often related to cellular stress or damage.

What is the role of the epinephrine pathway in cell signaling?

The epinephrine pathway is involved in the body's response to stress, regulating various physiological responses.

What are second messengers in cell signaling?

Second messengers are molecules that relay signals received at receptors on the cell surface to target molecules inside the cell.

How does apoptosis contribute to the removal of worn-out cells?

Apoptosis systematically dismantles and removes worn-out or damaged cells to maintain tissue health.

What is the relationship between GPCRs and second messengers?

GPCRs activate second messengers like cAMP to propagate the signal within the cell.

What is MCB Appreciation Day?

MCB Appreciation Day is an event where students can engage in activities like painting murals and picking up MCB swag.

When is Exam III scheduled?

Exam III is scheduled from Thursday, April 17 through Sunday, April 20.

What is the significance of the MCB Learning Center on MCB Appreciation Day?

The MCB Learning Center hosts activities for students to celebrate MCB Appreciation Day.