Cell biologyLesson 2 of 3 in the course Cell Communication

Cell Signaling: Gene Regulation, Metabolism, Growth Control, Apoptosis, and Termination

5 flashcards · 5 quiz questions · 5 match pairs · 5 fill-in sentences · English

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Summary

Cell signaling can change what a cell makes, how it obtains energy, and whether it divides. The same general process—receiving a signal and relaying it through the cell—can produce different results depending on the cell and its conditions.

Some signaling pathways regulate the transcription of RNA; others affect the translation of proteins from mRNA. A signal that begins at the cell surface can therefore influence which proteins the cell produces.

All flashcards

What does the MAPK/ERK pathway do after EGF activates it?
It carries information from a cell-surface receptor toward the nucleus; activated ERK can activate a protein kinase that regulates protein translation.
How does PKC free NF-κB to enter the nucleus?
PKC phosphorylates Iκ-B, preventing it from binding NF-κB and allowing NF-κB to promote transcription.
How does adrenaline help muscle cells make glucose available?
It raises cAMP and activates PKA, promoting glycogen breakdown while inhibiting glycogen synthesis.
How can carrier proteins affect estrogen and testosterone in blood?
They help keep these hydrophobic hormones soluble and protect them from degradation, contributing to longer-lasting effects.
How does a Ca²⁺ pump help terminate signaling?
It moves calcium back into stores across cell membranes, reversing effects of calcium release.

Quiz questions

  1. After EGF activates its receptor and the signaling cascade activates ERK, what can ERK do?Answer: Enter the nucleus and activate a protein kinase that regulates protein translation.
  2. Why does adrenaline signaling promote glycogen breakdown while inhibiting glycogen synthesis in muscle cells?Answer: It makes glucose available for energy while preventing a wasteful cycle of simultaneous breakdown and synthesis.
  3. Which sequence describes how growth-factor signaling can promote cell division?Answer: A growth factor activates an RTK; signaling involves RAS and MAP kinase, which stimulates proteins that help initiate division.
  4. Why can loss of extracellular-matrix attachment trigger apoptosis in some normal animal cells?Answer: It removes matrix-dependent signaling and can help keep cells in their appropriate locations.
  5. How do phosphatases help terminate a signaling response?Answer: They remove phosphate groups added to proteins, reversing phosphorylation.

Based on Biology 2e by Mary Ann Clark, Matthew Douglas, Jung Choi (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.

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