Cell Communication

These flashcards cover key concepts and terms related to cell communication and signaling as discussed in the lecture.

Cell Signaling

The process by which cells communicate with each other using signaling molecules.

Signal Reception

The detection of a signaling molecule by a target cell via its receptor.

Epinephrine

A hormone released by adrenal glands that triggers responses during stress, such as increased heart rate.

Signal Transduction

The process by which a signal from the environment is converted into a cellular response through a series of molecular events.

Local Signaling

Communication between cells that are close together, often through direct contact or local regulators.

Paracrine Signaling

A form of local signaling where cells communicate through secreted messenger molecules that affect nearby cells.

Synaptic Signaling

Communication in the nervous system where neurotransmitters are released from neurons to adjacent cells.

Hormonal Signaling

Long-distance signaling involving hormones that travel through the circulatory system to target cells.

G Protein-Coupled Receptors (GPCRs)

The largest family of cell-surface receptors involved in signal transduction across cell membranes.

Receptor Tyrosine Kinases (RTKs)

Membrane receptors that catalyze the transfer of phosphate groups; can trigger multiple signal pathways.

Ligand

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

Phosphorylation Cascade

A series of biochemical events where enzymes add phosphate groups to proteins, often used in signaling pathways.

Second Messengers

Small molecules or ions that transmit signals within a cell after the initial signal is received, such as cAMP or Ca2+.

Apoptosis

Programmed cell death that occurs in multicellular organisms, often triggered by signaling pathways.

Caspases

A family of protease enzymes that play an essential role in apoptosis.