Cell communication
Cell Communication
Cell communication (pronunciation: /sɛl kəˌmjuːnɪˈkeɪʃən/) is a vital process that enables cells to transmit signals to each other. This process is essential for the coordination and functioning of biological systems.
Etymology
The term "cell communication" is derived from the Latin word "cella" meaning a small room, and the Latin "communicare" meaning to share. It refers to the sharing of information between cells.
Definition
Cell communication is the process by which cells interact and coordinate their functions. This is achieved through the transmission and reception of chemical signals. These signals can be transmitted between cells that are close to each other, or they can be sent to cells that are far away.
Types of Cell Communication
There are several types of cell communication, including:
- Direct contact: Cells can communicate through direct contact with each other. This is often seen in immune responses where immune cells recognize and respond to foreign cells.
- Paracrine signaling: In paracrine signaling, cells communicate over short distances. A cell releases a signal into the local environment, which affects nearby cells.
- Endocrine signaling: In endocrine signaling, cells communicate over long distances. A cell releases a signal into the bloodstream, which can affect cells throughout the body.
- Synaptic signaling: This type of communication occurs in the nervous system. A neuron releases a neurotransmitter into a synapse, affecting the next neuron.
Related Terms
- Signal transduction: The process by which a signal is transmitted through a cell as a series of molecular events, most commonly protein phosphorylation catalyzed by protein kinases, which ultimately results in a cellular response.
- Cell signaling: A complex system of communication that governs basic cellular activities and coordinates cell actions.
- Receptor (biochemistry): A protein molecule that receives chemical signals from outside a cell.
- Ligand (biochemistry): A substance that forms a complex with a biomolecule to serve a biological purpose.
- Hormone: Chemicals produced by cells in one part of the body that tell cells in another part of the body what to do.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Cell communication
- Wikipedia's article - Cell communication
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