Chapter 9- Cell Communication and ATP

signaling cell

Cell that emits a signal to communicate.

ligand

Molecule that binds to a receptor.

kinase

Enzyme that adds phosphate groups to molecules.

gap junction

Direct connection between adjacent cells.

target cell

Cell that receives and responds to signals.

receptor

Protein that binds to ligands to initiate response.

neurotransmitter

Chemical messenger in nerve signal transmission.

plasmodesmata

Channels between plant cells for communication.

hormone

Signaling molecule traveling long distances in the body.

signal transduction

Process of converting a signal into a cellular response.

second messenger

Intracellular molecule that amplifies signaling pathways.

phosphatase

Enzyme that removes phosphate groups from molecules.

cell-surface receptors

Receptors that bind external ligands on cell membrane.

ATP

Energy currency of the cell for metabolic processes.

cell actions

Responses include growth, division, and gene expression.