Cell Communication

Definition

Cell communication is the process by which cells interact and respond to signals from their environment or other cells. This involves a series of steps including signal reception, transduction, and response.

Related terms

Signal Transduction:

The process by which an extracellular signaling molecule activates a specific receptor located on the cell surface or inside the cell that triggers a biochemical chain of events inside the cell, leading to a cellular response.

Endocrine Signaling:

A type of cell communication where hormones are released into the bloodstream by endocrine glands and travel throughout the body until they reach target cells with receptors for those hormones.

Paracrine Signaling:

A form of cell communication in which a cell produces a signal to induce changes in nearby cells, altering their behavior or function.