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When a signal molecule binds to a receptor, it induces a conformational change in the receptor, activating it. This activation triggers a cascade of intracellular signaling pathways, allowing the cell to respond to the external signal. The result can vary widely, influencing processes such as gene expression, cell growth, or metabolism, depending on the type of receptor and the cell's context. Ultimately, this binding and subsequent signaling is crucial for cellular communication and regulation.

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What is a molecule that acts as signal when it binds to a receptor?

Intracellular receptor


What binds to a signal molecule enabling the cell to respond to the signal molecule?

A receptor protein on the cell membrane binds to the signal molecule, initiating a series of intracellular events that lead to a cellular response. The binding of the signal molecule to the receptor triggers a signaling cascade that ultimately activates specific cellular pathways.


When a signal molecule such as a growth hormone binds to a receptor protein in the plasma membrane it stays on the outside of the cell. How might the inside of the cell know that the signal has bound?

When a signal molecule binds to a receptor protein on the cell membrane, it triggers a cascade of signaling events inside the cell through intracellular signaling molecules like second messengers. These second messengers relay the signal from the receptor at the cell membrane to the cell's interior, which initiates a response by activating various cellular processes. This signal transduction pathway enables the inside of the cell to detect and respond to the binding of the signal molecule at the membrane.


Why is it important that each receptor protein binds to only one signal molecule?

Specificity in binding helps ensure that signals are properly transmitted and received in cellular communication. If a receptor protein binds to multiple signal molecules, it can lead to inappropriate responses or interference with normal cell signaling pathways. This selectivity allows for more precise control and regulation of cellular processes.


When a hormone molecule binds to a specific protein on the plasma membrane the protein it binds to is called?

... a receptor protein.


When a signal molecule binds to a receptor protein the receptor protein may change the?

shape, leading to activation of signaling cascades within the cell. This activation can lead to changes in cell behavior or gene expression.


What is a molecule such as a neurotransmitter or a hormone that binds to a receptor called?

A molecule such as a neurotransmitter or hormone that binds to a receptor is called a ligand. This binding triggers a biological response in the target cell, influencing its function.


The most important factor determining which type of receptor a signal molecule will bind to is?

The most important factor determining which type of receptor a signal molecule will bind to is the specificity between the shape of the signal molecule and the complementary binding site on the receptor. Additionally, the affinity of the signal molecule for the receptor and the presence of any co-factors or co-receptors can also play a role in determining the binding specificity.


What is an example of a signal molecule that can bind to an intracelluar receptor and therby cause a gene to be turned on or off?

An example of a signal molecule that can bind to an intracellular receptor and regulate gene expression is cortisol. Cortisol binds to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors, forming a complex that can then bind to specific DNA sequences and regulate the transcription of target genes, leading to a variety of cellular responses.


Relationship between receptor protein and signal molecule?

Receptor proteins are molecules on the cell surface or within cells that bind specific signal molecules, such as hormones or neurotransmitters. When a signal molecule binds to a receptor protein, it triggers a cellular response or cascade of events, which can lead to changes in cell function, gene expression, or behavior. This binding is highly specific, as each receptor protein typically recognizes and responds to only a particular type of signal molecule.


What 2 things are needed for signal transduction to occur?

For signal transduction to occur, two essential components are a signaling molecule (such as a hormone or neurotransmitter) and a receptor. The signaling molecule binds to the receptor, usually located on the cell membrane, initiating a cascade of biochemical events within the cell. This process leads to a specific cellular response, such as changes in gene expression or alterations in cell activity.


When a neuron responds to a particular neurotransmitter by opening gated ion channels the neurotransmitter is serving as which part of the signal pathway?

The neurotransmitter functions as the ligand that binds to the receptor on the neuron's membrane, causing a conformational change that opens the ion channels. This allows ions to flow into or out of the neuron, resulting in a change in its membrane potential and ultimately transmitting the signal.