Cell Signaling and Second Messengers

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms related to cell signaling, second messengers, and signal transduction pathways.

Amplification

The process by which a small signal leads to a large response, often facilitated by second messengers.

Second Messengers

Small molecules or ions that relay signals inside cells after the activation of receptors, amplifying the response.

Adenylyl Cyclase

An enzyme that converts ATP to cyclic AMP, acting as a second messenger in signal transduction.

Cyclic AMP (cAMP)

A second messenger derived from ATP that mediates various cellular processes by activating protein targets.

Phosphorylation Cascade

A series of protein modifications where a kinase adds a phosphate group, resulting in signal amplification and cellular response.

Signal Transduction

The process by which a cell converts external signals into a functional response, often involving second messengers.

G Protein-Coupled Receptor (GPCR)

A receptor that, upon binding a ligand, activates a G protein, initiating a signaling cascade inside the cell.

Calcium as a Second Messenger

Calcium ions that enter the cytosol and trigger various cellular responses, acting as a second messenger in signaling pathways.

Phospholipase C

An enzyme that generates inositol trisphosphate (IP3) and diacylglycerol (DAG), which act as second messengers in signal transduction.

Inositol Trisphosphate (IP3)

A second messenger that promotes calcium release from the endoplasmic reticulum.