Flashcard on Chemical Signaling

Front

What is the primary role of ligands in cellular communication?

Back

To bind to protein receptors and trigger cellular responses

Front

Key difference between ligands and substrates?

Back

Ligands remain unchanged during binding

Front

What is quorum sensing?

Back

A phenomenon where a critical population density of cells leads to a collective behavioral change

Front

Which signaling molecule is secreted by endocrine glands?

Back

Hormones

Front

What is the role of neurotransmitters in cellular communication?

Back

To enable rapid and localized signal transmission between neurons

Front

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic shared by hormones and neurotransmitters? Options: Small size, Water solubility, Shape compatibility with receptors, Identical chemical structure

Back

Identical chemical structure

Front

What type of receptors do steroid hormones bind to?

Back

Intracellular receptors

Front

Which signaling molecule is crucial for muscle contraction?

Back

Calcium ions

Front

What is the function of transmembrane receptors?

Back

To mediate signals from molecules that cannot permeate the cell membrane

Front

Which of the following is an example of a neurotransmitter? Cytokine, Steroid, Glutamate, Insulin

Back

Glutamate