Cell Communication: UNIT 4: Topic 4.1

What facilitates direct cell communication in animal cells?

Gap Junctions allow direct cytoplasmic connections between adjacent cells.

What facilitates direct cell communication in plant cells?

Plasmodesmata allow direct cytoplasmic connections between adjacent cells.

What are cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) important for?

Cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) allow cells to recognize each other, triggering responses important for processes like immune response and tissue formation.

What type of signaling involves molecules that diffuse to neighboring cells?

Paracrine Signaling involves signal molecules that are secreted by one cell and diffuse to nearby target cells.

What is the difference between autocrine and paracrine signaling?

Autocrine signaling affects the same cell that secreted the signaling molecule, while paracrine signaling affects nearby target cells.

What is synaptic signaling?

A type of local signaling specific to nerve cells, where neurotransmitters are released at synapses to communicate with neighboring neurons or muscle cells.

What characterizes endocrine signaling?

Endocrine signaling involves hormones that are secreted into the bloodstream and travel over long distances to target cells.

What is the role of receptors in signal reception?

Cells receive signals via specific receptors, which can be on the cell surface or inside the cell.

What happens during signal transduction?

After a signal binds to its receptor, the information is transmitted through intracellular signaling pathways that result in a specific cellular response.

What are G-protein-coupled receptors?

Membrane receptors on the surface of the cell that initiate a signaling cascade inside the cell.

How do intracellular receptors function?

Intracellular receptors are located inside the cell and typically respond to lipid-soluble molecules like steroid hormones, directly affecting gene expression.

What is signal amplification?

Signal amplification occurs when one signaling molecule produces a large response by activating multiple intracellular signaling molecules.

What is a negative feedback mechanism?

Negative feedback inhibits further signal production once a threshold is reached.

What is a positive feedback mechanism?

Positive feedback amplifies the signal, enhancing the response.