Intro to Cell Signaling

What is the game 'telephone' about?

It is a game that demonstrates how communication can distort messages as they are passed from one person to another.

What is a receptor in the context of cell signaling?

A receptor is a molecule, often a protein, that a signal molecule can bind to.

What is a ligand?

A ligand is a smaller signal molecule that binds to a typically larger receptor molecule.

What are the three basic steps in cell signaling?

Reception, Transduction, Response.

What is paracrine signaling?

A type of signaling where a cell targets another cell nearby through a signaling molecule that may diffuse between them.

What is endocrine signaling?

A type of signaling that allows cells to communicate with distant target cells via the bloodstream.

What is autocrine signaling?

A type of signaling where a cell secretes a molecule that binds to its own receptors, causing a response.

What is the role of a ligand-gated ion channel in cell signaling?

It allows ions to pass through the cell membrane when a ligand binds to the channel, which may trigger a cellular response.

How do viruses like HIV exploit cell signaling?

Viruses like HIV target specific receptors on immune cells, such as the CD4 receptor on Helper T cells, allowing them to attach and infect the cells.

What is one example of a consequence of disrupted cell signaling related to cancer?

Cancer cells may produce too much of their own growth factor, leading to excessive division.

What is the primary purpose of cell signaling?

The primary purpose of cell signaling is to enable communication between cells to coordinate various functions and responses.

What are second messengers in cell signaling?

Second messengers are intracellular signaling molecules released by the cell in response to exposure to signaling molecules, amplifying the signal.

What is signal amplification in cell signaling?

Signal amplification is the process by which a small initial signal is enhanced, resulting in a larger response in the target cell.

What types of molecules can act as signaling ligands?

Signaling ligands can be hormones, neurotransmitters, or other types of molecules, including proteins and peptides.

What role do G protein-coupled receptors play in cell signaling?

G protein-coupled receptors transmit signals from outside the cell to inside by activating G proteins when a ligand binds.

What is a scaffold protein in cell signaling?

A scaffold protein is a protein that organizes multiple signaling proteins into a complex to enhance the efficiency of signal transduction.

How does negative feedback regulate cell signaling?

Negative feedback helps maintain homeostasis by reducing the output of a signaling pathway in response to its activation thereby preventing overactivity.

What is the significance of receptor phosphorylation in cell signaling?

Receptor phosphorylation is crucial for activating or deactivating receptors, thus modulating their activity and the resultant signal pathways.