Introduction to Cell Signaling quiz Flashcards

The two key components required for cell signaling are the ligand (or signaling molecule) and the receptor.

The first step of cell signaling is reception, where the ligand binds to a specific receptor causing a conformational change.

During transduction, the conformational change in the receptor leads to a series of interactions that convert the external signal into a change within the cell.

The final step of cell signaling is the cellular response, which results in a physical or chemical change in response to the extracellular ligand.

The two major classes of signaling receptors are cell surface receptors and intracellular receptors.

A receptor is a biomolecule, typically a protein, that changes conformation when bound to a specific ligand or signaling molecule.

The conformational change in the receptor initiates the transduction pathway, leading to a series of cellular interactions and ultimately a cellular response.

The ligand binds to a specific receptor, initiating the cell signaling process by causing a conformational change in the receptor.

The transduction step can vary significantly between different pathways, involving different series of molecular interactions and activations.

The end result of the cell signaling pathway is the cellular response, which is a physical or chemical change triggered by the extracellular ligand.

Cell surface receptors bind to ligands outside the cell and initiate a signaling cascade inside the cell.

Intracellular receptors bind to ligands that enter the cell and directly influence gene expression or other cellular functions.

The plasma membrane houses receptors that bind to extracellular ligands, initiating the cell signaling process.

In cell signaling, 'transduction' implies the conversion of an external signal into a change within the cell through a series of molecular interactions.