Cell Communication in AP Biology

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to cell communication as outlined in the lecture on AP Biology.

Reception

The process where a signaling molecule (ligand) binds to a specific receptor protein, causing a conformational shape change.

Ligand

A signaling molecule that can be a steroid hormone, such as estrogen or testosterone.

G-protein

A protein that binds to a receptor and changes shape to propagate a signal within the cell.

Exocytosis

The process of releasing proteins, such as insulin, from cells to the extracellular space.

Transduction

The phase in cell communication where signaling cascades relay signals from receptors to target cells, amplifying and activating responses.

Phosphorylation Cascade

A series of events where protein kinases phosphorylate proteins to relay a signal inside the cell.

Secondary Messengers

Molecules inside the cytosol that relay messages in the cell; examples include cAMP.

cAMP

Cyclic adenosine monophosphate, a secondary messenger that carries messages within cells.

Response

Cellular outcomes that follow signaling, such as cell growth, secretion of molecules, gene expression, and apoptosis.

Receptor Tyrosine Kinases

Membrane receptors that dimerize and auto-phosphorylate upon ligand binding, triggering a signaling cascade.

Ligand-gated Ion Channels

Receptors that open in response to binding of a ligand, allowing ions to flow in or out of the cell.

Paracrine signaling

Local signaling where a cell affects nearby cells through diffusion of signaling molecules.

Autocrine signaling

A form of signaling where a cell targets itself to regulate its own function.

Endocrine signaling

Long-distance signaling where hormones are distributed via the circulatory system to distant target cells.

Juxtacrine signaling

Direct communication between adjacent cells through physical contact.

Plasma membrane receptors

Large, polar, charged molecules, relayed via second messengers

G protein receptors

Most common, activated G protein, cAMP production, epi

Receptor tyrosine kinase

Plasma membrane, insulin binds, molecules dimerize and autophosphorylate trigger signaling cascade

Ligand gated ion channel

Plasma membersne receptor

Intracellular receptors

Small, nonpolar, hydrophobic ligand diffuses through steroid or thyroid