intracellular signal transduction

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The process in which a signal is passed on to downstream components within the cell, which become activated themselves to further propagate the signal and finally trigger a change in the function or state of the cell. [GOC:bf, GOC:jl, GOC:signaling, ISBN:3527303782]

Intracellular signal transduction is a complex process by which cells receive and respond to signals from their environment. These signals can be chemical, physical, or mechanical, and they can originate from other cells, the extracellular matrix, or the cell's own internal environment. When a signal is received by a cell, it is converted into a form that can be understood and acted upon by the cell's machinery. This process is called signal transduction, and it involves a series of steps that ultimately lead to a cellular response.

The first step in signal transduction is the binding of the signal molecule, or ligand, to a specific receptor protein on the cell surface or within the cell. This binding event triggers a conformational change in the receptor protein, which in turn activates a cascade of intracellular signaling events. These events can involve the activation of protein kinases, which phosphorylate other proteins, or the production of second messengers, such as cyclic AMP or calcium ions, which can diffuse throughout the cell and activate other signaling molecules.

The signal is then relayed through a series of intracellular signaling proteins, which interact with each other in a specific order to amplify, integrate, and distribute the signal. This signaling pathway can involve a variety of different proteins, including kinases, phosphatases, GTPases, and adaptor proteins. The specific proteins involved in a particular signaling pathway will vary depending on the type of signal, the cell type, and the cellular response that is being triggered.

Ultimately, the signal transduction pathway will culminate in a specific cellular response. This response can be as simple as a change in gene expression or as complex as the initiation of cell division, differentiation, or death. The cellular response is determined by the specific proteins that are activated or inhibited by the signaling pathway, as well as the downstream pathways that are triggered.

Intracellular signal transduction is essential for the proper functioning of all cells. It allows cells to communicate with each other, respond to changes in their environment, and maintain homeostasis. Defects in signal transduction pathways can lead to a wide variety of diseases, including cancer, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders.

Signal transduction pathways are highly regulated and dynamic, and they can be modified by a variety of factors, including hormones, growth factors, and environmental stimuli. The ability of cells to respond to signals from their environment is essential for their survival and function, and it is one of the most fundamental processes in biology.'
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Proteins (167)

Compounds (1,794)