Chapter 11 - Cell Communication

These flashcards cover key concepts from Chapter 11 on Cell Communication, including signaling types, stages, and pathways.

What is the primary purpose of cell signaling in multicellular organisms?

To communicate and coordinate activities essential for multicellular life.

What are the four major types of cell signaling?

Direct contact, Paracrine, Synaptic, Endocrine.

What happens during the Reception stage of cell signaling?

A signal molecule (ligand) binds to a receptor protein on the target cell, activating it.

Name a major type of receptor involved in cell signaling and its function.

G Protein-Coupled Receptors (GPCRs) work with a G protein that binds GTP to trigger a response.

What is a phosphorylation cascade?

A series of events where protein kinases activate one another through the addition of phosphate groups.

What role do second messengers play in cell signaling?

They spread the signal quickly inside the cell, facilitating response pathways.

Provide an example of a second messenger and its function.

cAMP (cyclic AMP) activates protein kinase A.

What is apoptosis?

Programmed cell death important for development, immune function, and cancer prevention.

What triggers the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis?

Release of cytochrome c from mitochondria, which activates caspases.

Why is termination important in cell signaling?

To stop the response when the signal is no longer present, preventing unnecessary cellular activity.