Describe how a cell responds to a signal

Inside the cell, ligands bind to their internal receptors, allowing them to directly affect the cell’s DNA and protein-producing machinery. Using signal transduction pathways, receptors in the plasma membrane produce a variety of effects on the cell. The results of signaling pathways are extremely varied and depend on the type of cell involved as well as the external and internal conditions. A small sampling of responses is described in this outcome.

What You’ll Learn to Do

• Describe how signaling pathways direct protein expression, cellular metabolism, and cell growth
• Recognize the role of apoptosis in the development and maintenance of a healthy organism

Learning Activities

The learning activities for this section include the following:

• Expression and Growth
• Cell Death
• Self Check: Response to the Signal