AP - Unit 2: Cell Communication

Front

What are intracellular receptors?

Back

Intracellular receptors are proteins located inside the cell that bind to signaling molecules (ligands) that can pass through the cell membrane, leading to changes in gene expression and cellular function.

Front

What is the role of receptor proteins?

Back

Receptor proteins are membrane proteins that bind to specific signaling molecules (ligands) and initiate a cellular response, allowing communication between the cell and its external environment.

Front

What determines a target cell for a signal molecule?

Back

A target cell for a signal molecule is determined by the presence of specific signal receptors on its surface that can bind to the signaling molecule.

Front

What is a receptor tyrosine kinase?

Back

Receptor tyrosine kinases are a type of transmembrane receptor that, upon binding to a ligand, undergoes dimerization and autophosphorylation, activating signaling pathways that regulate cell growth and differentiation.

Front

What is phosphorylation?

Back

Phosphorylation is the process of adding a phosphate group to a molecule, often a protein, which can change the protein's function and activity.

Front

What is the function of G-protein coupled receptors?

Back

G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) are a large family of membrane receptors that, when activated by a ligand, interact with G-proteins to initiate a signaling cascade inside the cell.

Front

What is a ligand?

Back

A ligand is a molecule that binds to a specific receptor to initiate a biological response, such as hormones or neurotransmitters.

Front

What is a phosphorylation cascade?

Back

A phosphorylation cascade is a series of chemical reactions during which a series of proteins are phosphorylated in succession, amplifying the signal and leading to a cellular response.

Front

What is cAMP?

Back

Cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) is a secondary messenger that transmits signals from receptors on the cell surface to target molecules inside the cell, playing a crucial role in signal transduction.

Front

What are channel proteins?

Back

Channel proteins are integral membrane proteins that facilitate the transport of ions or molecules across the cell membrane by forming a pore.