Cell Communication

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and concepts related to cell communication, including various signaling processes and the mechanisms involved.

Signaling molecule

A molecule that binds to a receptor to initiate a cellular response.

Signal reception

The process whereby a signaling molecule binds to a receptor, causing it to change shape.

Signal transduction

The cascade of molecular interactions that transmit signals from receptors to relay molecules inside the cell.

Cellular response

The outcome of cell signaling, which can involve regulation of transcription or changes in cytoplasmic activities.

Apoptosis

Programmed cell death that requires integration of multiple cell-signaling pathways.

Quorum sensing

A method of communication in bacteria where they secrete signaling molecules to coordinate behavior.

Biofilm formation

The secretion of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) by bacteria in response to signaling.

Paracrine signaling

Local signaling where cells signal nearby cells, often involving growth factors.

Synaptic signaling

A form of local signaling where neurotransmitters are released from neurons.

Endocrine signaling

Long-distance signaling where hormones travel to target cells.

G Protein-Coupled Receptors (GPCR)

A class of receptors that activate intracellular pathways in response to signaling molecules.

Receptor Tyrosine Kinases (RTK)

A type of receptor that, upon activation, phosphorylates tyrosine residues on itself and relay proteins.

Ligand-gated ion channels

Receptors that open to allow ions to enter the cell upon binding of a signaling molecule.

Cyclic AMP (cAMP)

A second messenger produced from ATP that mediates various cellular responses.

Calcium ions (Ca2+)

Common second messengers involved in processes like muscle contraction and cell division.

Inositol Triphosphate (IP3)

A second messenger that mobilizes calcium ions from the endoplasmic reticulum.

Signal regulation

The mechanisms by which cells fine-tune their responses to signaling molecules.

Amplification

The process where a single signaling molecule leads to a significant cellular response.

Scaffolding proteins

Proteins that enhance the efficiency of signaling by grouping signaling molecules together.

Caspase cascade

The series of events involved in apoptosis leading to cell death.

Cell-cell recognition

The direct attachment of membrane-bound surface molecules between cells.

Direct communication

Communication through structures like gap junctions that allow signaling molecules to pass directly.

Extracellular matrix

The network of proteins and carbohydrates outside the cell that can influence signaling.

Ligand-binding site

The specific region of a receptor where a signaling molecule binds.

Phosphorylation cascade

A series of phosphorylation events that amplify the signal within a cell.