Cell Communication

quiz

What are the three phases of the signal transduction pathway?

Reception, Transduction, Response

How do the endocrine and nervous systems differ?

The endocrine system uses hormones for long-distance signaling, while the nervous system uses electrical signals for rapid communication.

Why do hormones qualify as long-distance signals?

are released into the bloodstream and can affect target cells far from their origin.

What is a ligand?

a signaling molecule that binds to a receptor to initiate a cellular response.

What is autocrine signaling?

signaling occurs when a cell signals itself or nearby similar cells.

Give an example of autocrine signaling.

A virus-infected cell signaling apoptosis in itself and neighboring cells.

What is paracrine signaling?

Paracrine signaling occurs between cells that are close together.

What is direct signaling?

involves gap junctions or plasmodesmata that allow small molecules to pass between adjacent cells.

What is negative feedback in the context of hormones?

is a mechanism that helps maintain homeostasis by returning the body to a set point.

Provide an example of negative feedback.

Maintaining blood glucose levels or body temperature.

What type of signaling is a neurotransmitter?

Paracrine signaling, as it occurs between cells that are close together.

What are endocrine signals?

Signals that originate from endocrine cells and are sent to distant target cells in the form of hormones.

What is a positive feedback loop?

A mechanism that increases activity in response to a stimulus, such as oxytocin increasing uterine contractions.

What role does oxytocin play in bonding?

facilitates bonding and increases uterine contractions during childbirth.

How can climate change be considered a positive feedback loop?

Climate change can amplify effects such as increased temperatures leading to more greenhouse gas emissions.

What is the significance of studying cell signaling?

Understanding cell signaling is crucial for comprehending how cells communicate and respond to their environment.

What are examples of short and long distance messages in the body?

Short distance messages include neurotransmitters, while long distance messages include hormones.

What types of messages are considered general messages sent throughout the body?

Hormonal signals that affect multiple systems, such as stress hormones.

What types of messages are more specific?

Messages that target specific cells or tissues, such as insulin affecting liver cells.

How do cells communicate if they are far apart?

over long distances through hormones released into the bloodstream.

What is the role of signaling types in cellular communication?

Different signaling types (autocrine, paracrine, endocrine) allow for diverse communication methods between cells.