Types of intercellular signalling

What is contact-dependent signalling?

A signalling mechanism in which a membrane-bound signal molecule on one cell binds to a receptor on a neighbouring cell.

What is paracrine signalling?

A signalling mechanism in which a cell releases local mediators that act on nearby cells.

What is synaptic signalling?

A signalling mechanism in which an electrical signal travels along a neuron, causing neurotransmitter release that binds to receptors on a target cell.

What is endocrine signalling?

A signalling mechanism in which hormones are released into the bloodstream and travel to distant target cells.

What is long-range signalling?

Communication between cells over long distances, particularly through endocrine and synaptic signalling.

Which type of signalling is generally slow, endocrine or synaptic?

Endocrine signalling is generally slower because hormones must travel through the bloodstream to reach their target cells.

Which type of signalling is generally fast, endocrine or synaptic?

Synaptic signalling is generally fast because electrical impulses travel along neurons and neurotransmitters act at synapses.

What is the difference between paracrine and endocrine signalling?

Paracrine signalling acts on nearby cells through local mediators, whereas endocrine signalling uses the bloodstream to reach distant target cells.

What is the difference between contact-dependent and paracrine signalling?

Contact-dependent signalling requires direct cell-to-cell contact, whereas paracrine signalling involves the release of local mediators.

What are the four main types of intercellular signalling?

Contact-dependent, paracrine, synaptic and endocrine signalling.