BIOL 100 Chapter Notes - Chapter 36: Diabetes Mellitus Type 1, Vasopressin, Aldosterone
Document Summary
Cellular communication - when cells transfer signals to each other and promote changes. Cells by communicate by sending and receiving signals. These extracellular signals begin as molecules that can be secreted from the signaling cell into the extracellular space where it acts on a target cell that has a receptor for the ligand. Signaling cell - any cell that sends signals to other cells. Ligands - molecules that bind to other molecules. When it binds to its receptor, the receptor undergoes a conformational change that turns "on" the receptor and initiates a signaling cascade in the target cell. Signaling molecules can be chemicals, proteins, lipids, nucleic acids, and even dissolved gases such as nitric oxide. Homeostasis - used to encompass all the various ways in which the body maintains its biological equilibrium. Interaction of all the feedback systems in your body working to control variables that will go up and down over time.
