Cell Signaling: Structural Properties, Regulation, and Posttranslational Modifications of Signaling Proteins

These flashcards cover key concepts related to cell signaling and the structural and regulatory aspects of signaling proteins, including their modification and interaction characteristics.

Cell Signaling

The process by which cells communicate with each other to coordinate their actions.

Modular Structure

Refers to the construction of signaling proteins from multiple signaling modules or domains that can act independently or together.

Posttranslational Modifications (PTM)

Chemical modifications of a protein after its synthesis, such as phosphorylation, acetylation, or ubiquitination, influencing its function and activity.

Catalytic Domain

A region of a signaling protein that catalyzes biochemical reactions, such as the transfer of phosphate groups during phosphorylation.

Interaction Domains

Specific regions of proteins that facilitate interactions with other proteins or substrates, enabling signal reception and transmission.

Allostery

The regulation of a protein's activity through the binding of an effector molecule at a site other than the active site, inducing a conformational change.

Multivalency

The ability of signaling proteins to engage in multiple interactions simultaneously, allowing complex signal integration.

Ubiquitination

A posttranslational modification where ubiquitin is attached to a protein, marking it for degradation or altering its cellular location and function.

Endocytosis

The process by which cells internalize substances from their exterior environment through the invagination of the cell membrane.

Proteasome

A large proteolytic complex responsible for degrading ubiquitinated proteins within the cell.