AP Biology - Cell Communication

Front

What is signal amplification in cell communication?

Back

The process by which a small signal is enhanced to produce a larger cellular response, allowing cells to respond more effectively to stimuli.

Front

What type of signaling involves hormones?

Back

Endocrine signaling.

Front

Where are receptors for steroid hormones typically located?

Back

In the cytoplasm, because steroid hormones are nonpolar and can easily cross the cell membrane.

Front

What role do protein kinases play during signal transduction?

Back

They activate other relay proteins by adding a phosphate group to them.

Front

What is a secondary messenger in cell signaling?

Back

A molecule that relays signals received at receptors on the cell surface to target molecules inside the cell, such as cAMP.

Front

Define autocrine signaling.

Back

A form of cell signaling where a cell secretes a hormone or chemical messenger that binds to receptors on its own surface, affecting its own activity.

Front

What is paracrine signaling?

Back

A type of signaling where cells communicate with nearby cells through the release of signaling molecules.

Front

Explain the difference between polar and nonpolar hormones.

Back

Polar hormones cannot easily cross the cell membrane and typically bind to receptors on the cell surface, while nonpolar hormones can cross the membrane and bind to intracellular receptors.

Front

What is the function of cAMP in signal transduction?

Back

cAMP acts as a secondary messenger that transmits signals from the cell surface to the inside of the cell, activating various cellular responses.

Front

What is the significance of phosphorylation in cellular signaling?

Back

Phosphorylation is a key mechanism that activates or deactivates proteins, thereby regulating cellular processes.