Chapter 9 Cell Communication

What is direct signaling in multicellular organisms?

Direct signaling involves the transfer of signals through gap junctions connecting adjacent cells.

What is endocrine signaling?

Endocrine signaling refers to the release of hormones into the bloodstream to affect distant target cells.

How do neurotransmitters function in signaling?

Neurotransmitters are chemical signals that transmit messages across synapses between neurons.

What triggers the activation of a receptor in signaling pathways?

The binding of a specific ligand to the receptor site triggers receptor activation.

What is the significance of ligand binding in cell signaling?

Ligand binding induces conformational changes in receptors that initiate signal transduction.

How do ion channel receptors work in signaling?

Ion channel receptors open or close in response to ligand binding, allowing ions to flow across the membrane.

What is the function of protein kinases in signaling?

Protein kinases add phosphate groups to proteins, modifying their activity and function in signaling pathways.

What is signal amplification in cell signaling?

Signal amplification occurs when a single ligand-receptor interaction leads to multiple signaling events inside the cell.

How does cell signaling impact gene expression?

Cell signaling pathways can activate transcription factors that promote or inhibit gene expression.

What role do scaffolding proteins play in signal transduction?

Scaffolding proteins organize signaling components to enhance signal transduction efficiency.