Cell Communication
Cell Communication Overview
- Communication between cells is crucial in coordinating and regulating complex processes in multicellular organisms.
- Cells use various methods to communicate with each other, from direct contact to heart-to-heart signalling.
Direct Contact
- Cells can communicate with each other through direct contact, also known as cell-cell interaction.
- This often occurs when surface molecules on one cell come into contact with surface molecules on another cell.
- This process is exceptionally crucial during immune responses, when immune cells identify and target infected or cancerous cells.
Local Signalling
- In local signalling, cells release messenger molecules or signals that affect nearby cells.
- This process is crucial in the healing of wounds and the coordinated responses of cells in the immune system.
Long-Distance Signalling
- Long-distance signalling is crucial for coordinating the functions of cells located in distinct parts of the organism.
- The endocrine system uses this form of cell communication by releasing hormones into the bloodstream, which then reach target cells located far from the hormone-producing cells.
Signal Transduction Pathways
- When a signalling molecule binds to a receptor on the surface of a cell, the cell undergoes a series of changes, a process known as a signal transduction pathway.
- This process ultimately leads to a response within the cell.
Cellular Responses
- The final consequence of cell-to-cell communication is a change in the receiving cell's behaviour, also known as a cellular response.
- Responses can include changes in gene expression, cell division, and activation or deactivation of particular cell functions.
- Crucially, a cell's response to a signal depends on its particular collection of proteins and the pathways activated.