AP Bio Insta-Review Topic 4.3*: Signal Transduction

Front

What is signal transduction?

Back

Signal transduction is the process by which a cell responds to external signals, converting them into a functional response.

Front

What role do transcription factors play in gene expression?

Back

Transcription factors bind to specific DNA sequences to regulate the transcription of target genes, turning gene expression on or off.

Front

Define apoptosis.

Back

Apoptosis is a programmed cell death process where the cell systematically dismantles itself, playing a crucial role in development and homeostasis.

Front

What are the possible outcomes of a signal transduction pathway?

Back

Possible outcomes include activation of gene expression, changes in cell metabolism, initiation of cell division, or apoptosis.

Front

What is the function of a promoter in gene expression?

Back

A promoter is a DNA sequence that initiates transcription of a particular gene, serving as a binding site for RNA polymerase.

Front

How does RNA polymerase function in transcription?

Back

RNA polymerase synthesizes RNA from a DNA template during the transcription process, facilitating gene expression.

Front

What is the difference between apoptosis and necrosis?

Back

Apoptosis is a controlled process of cell death, while necrosis is an uncontrolled process that results from injury or disease.

Front

What is a signal molecule?

Back

A signal molecule is a chemical substance that transmits information between cells, initiating a signal transduction pathway.

Front

Explain the concept of a receptor in signal transduction.

Back

A receptor is a protein on the cell surface or inside the cell that binds to a specific signal molecule, triggering a response.

Front

What is the significance of second messengers in signal transduction?

Back

Second messengers amplify the signal received by receptors, facilitating a rapid and widespread cellular response.