Cell-Cell Communication AP

Front

What determines whether a cell is a target cell for a particular signal molecule?

Back

Signal receptors are proteins on the target cell that specifically bind to signal molecules, determining the cell's response.

Front

What is an example of paracrine signaling in animals?

Back

Growth factors are signaling molecules that act on nearby cells, exemplifying paracrine signaling.

Front

What is a signal molecule that binds to a plasma-membrane protein called?

Back

A ligand is a molecule that binds to a receptor, initiating a cellular response.

Front

What enzyme converts cAMP to AMP?

Back

Phosphodiesterase is the enzyme responsible for breaking down cAMP into AMP.

Front

What is the function of the second messenger IP3?

Back

IP3 binds to and opens ligand-gated channels, allowing ions to flow into the cell.

Front

What is the role of signal receptors in cell signaling?

Back

Signal receptors detect specific signal molecules and initiate a cellular response.

Front

Define paracrine signaling.

Back

Paracrine signaling is a form of cell communication where signaling molecules affect nearby target cells.

Front

What is a ligand?

Back

A ligand is a molecule that binds to a specific receptor to trigger a response in the target cell.

Front

What is the function of cAMP in cell signaling?

Back

cAMP acts as a second messenger that relays signals from receptors on the cell surface to target molecules inside the cell.

Front

What is the role of protein kinases in cell signaling?

Back

Protein kinases are enzymes that add phosphate groups to proteins, often activating or deactivating them in signaling pathways.