Juxtacrine Signaling

Definition

Juxtacrine signaling is a type of cell communication that involves direct contact between the signaling and responding cells. This means that the cells must be touching each other for the signal to be passed.

Analogy

Think of juxtacrine signaling like a game of telephone where you have to whisper the message directly into someone's ear. The message can't be shouted across a room or sent via text; it has to be delivered through direct, physical contact.

Related terms

Adhesion Molecules: These are proteins located on the cell surface involved in binding with other cells or with the extracellular matrix in processes like cell signaling and cell recognition.

Paracrine Signaling: This is another form of cellular communication where signals are sent to nearby cells. It's like shouting a message to someone who's close by, but not directly touching you.

Cell Junctions: These are structures in multicellular organisms that connect cells together, allowing them to communicate and work together as part of a larger organism.