Final answer:
cAMP is a second messenger molecule that mediates hormonal responses by controlling gene and enzyme activity. CRP/ CAP is a protein that binds to cAMP in the presence of low glucose levels and regulates the processing of alternative sugars in catabolic reactions.
Step-by-step explanation:
cAMP (cyclic adenosine monophosphate) is a second messenger molecule that plays a crucial role in signal transduction within cells. It mediates hormonal responses by controlling gene activity and enzyme activity. cAMP is formed when a hormone-receptor complex binds to and activates a membrane-bound adenylate cyclase enzyme, which converts ATP to cAMP.
The cAMP receptor protein (CRP), also known as catabolic activator protein (CAP), is a protein that binds to cAMP in the presence of low levels of glucose. When bound to cAMP, CRP binds to the promoters of operons that control the processing of alternative sugars in catabolic reactions that break down complex molecules into simpler ones.