Question

Which of the following statements is true about cell signaling?

1) In autocrine signaling, the cell has receptors on its surface that respond to the messenger
2) During paracrine signaling, messenger molecules travel short distances through extracellular space
3) During endocrine signaling, messenger molecules reach their target cells through the bloodstream
4) All of the above is true

Answer 1

Cell signaling involves autocrine, paracrine, and endocrine signaling.Therefore, the correct statement is: In autocrine signaling, the cell has receptors on its surface that respond to the messenger; during paracrine signaling, messenger molecules travel short distances through extracellular space; during endocrine signaling, messenger molecules reach their target cells through the bloodstream.

Step-by-step explanation:

Cell signaling involves communication between cells through the use of chemical signals. There are four categories of cell signaling: autocrine signaling, paracrine signaling, endocrine signaling, and direct signaling across gap junctions.

1. Autocrine signaling occurs when a cell releases signaling molecules that bind to receptors on its own surface. This allows the cell to respond to its own signals.
2. Paracrine signaling involves messenger molecules traveling short distances through the extracellular space to reach nearby target cells. This type of signaling is often important in coordinating local cellular responses.
3. Endocrine signaling utilizes messenger molecules, often hormones, which travel through the bloodstream to reach their target cells in different parts of the body. This allows for long-distance communication in multicellular organisms.