Signal Transduction & Cell Communication

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 through a series of molecular events.

Front

What is the role of G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) in signal transduction?

Back

GPCRs are membrane proteins that detect extracellular signals and activate intracellular signaling pathways through the activation of G-proteins.

Front

What is cAMP and its function in signal transduction?

Back

Cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) is a secondary messenger that transmits signals from GPCRs to target proteins, often activating protein kinases.

Front

Define apoptosis.

Back

Apoptosis is a form of programmed cell death that occurs in a regulated manner, allowing for the removal of damaged or unnecessary cells.

Front

What is autocrine signaling?

Back

Autocrine signaling is a form of cell communication where a cell secretes a signal that binds to receptors on its own surface, influencing its own activity.

Front

What is paracrine signaling?

Back

Paracrine signaling involves the release of signaling molecules by a cell that affect nearby target cells, facilitating local communication.

Front

What is the difference between endocrine and paracrine signaling?

Back

Endocrine signaling involves hormones released into the bloodstream to affect distant target cells, while paracrine signaling affects nearby cells.

Front

What is a signal cascade?

Back

A signal cascade is a series of biochemical events triggered by a signal that amplifies the response within the cell, often involving multiple steps and molecules.

Front

What is negative feedback in biological systems?

Back

Negative feedback is a regulatory mechanism in which a change in a variable triggers a response that counteracts the initial change, maintaining homeostasis.

Front

What is positive feedback in biological systems?

Back

Positive feedback is a process that amplifies a response or increases the output of a system, often leading to a specific outcome.