cellular response to temperature stimulus

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

Any process that results in a change in state or activity of a cell (in terms of movement, secretion, enzyme production, gene expression, etc.) as a result of a temperature stimulus. [GOC:mah]

Cellular response to temperature stimulus is a complex process that allows organisms to maintain their internal temperature within a narrow range, a process known as thermoregulation. This response involves a cascade of molecular and cellular events triggered by changes in temperature.

1. **Temperature Sensing:** Cells possess specialized proteins, called temperature sensors, that detect changes in temperature. These sensors can be ion channels, such as TRP channels, or enzymes, like heat shock proteins. When the temperature deviates from the optimal range, these sensors undergo conformational changes.

2. **Signal Transduction:** Upon activation, temperature sensors initiate signal transduction pathways. These pathways often involve second messengers like cAMP, calcium ions, or kinases. These signals activate transcription factors, which in turn regulate the expression of genes involved in the response.

3. **Cellular Responses:** Depending on the temperature change, cells mount various responses.

* **Heat Stress:** When temperatures rise, cells activate mechanisms to dissipate heat and prevent damage. This includes:
* **Increased expression of heat shock proteins (HSPs):** HSPs act as chaperones, helping to refold damaged proteins and prevent aggregation.
* **Induction of antioxidant enzymes:** These enzymes neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are generated in increased amounts during heat stress.
* **Activation of ATP-dependent pumps:** These pumps transport ions across the cell membrane to maintain osmotic balance and reduce cell swelling.

* **Cold Stress:** When temperatures decrease, cells activate processes to maintain energy production and prevent freezing:
* **Increased expression of cold shock proteins (CSPs):** CSPs help stabilize proteins and mRNA in cold environments.
* **Activation of metabolic pathways:** Cells may shift to alternative energy sources, such as fatty acids, to maintain energy production.
* **Production of antifreeze proteins:** These proteins lower the freezing point of body fluids, preventing ice crystal formation.

4. **Feedback Mechanisms:** The cellular response to temperature stimulus is tightly regulated through feedback mechanisms. As the temperature returns to the optimal range, the signal transduction pathways are shut down, and the expression of heat shock or cold shock proteins is reduced.

These responses, orchestrated at the cellular level, are essential for maintaining homeostasis and ensuring survival in fluctuating environmental temperatures. They play a crucial role in diverse physiological processes, including metabolism, growth, and development.'
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Proteins (4)

Compounds (339)