Final answer:
Cells communicate via endocrine and autocrine signaling. Endocrine signaling has a wide range but is slow, while autocrine signaling is quick but limited to the signaling cell.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cells use different communication methods to coordinate their functions. One such method is endocrine signaling, where hormones are secreted into the extracellular fluid, diffuse into the bloodstream, and can travel great distances to target cells. This type of signaling is critical for maintaining homeostasis in the body. Another method is autocrine signaling, where a cell targets itself. This occurs when the signaling molecules secreted by a cell are bound by receptors on the same cell, an example being IL-1 in the inflammatory response.
Two primary modes of communication between cells are endocrine and autocrine:
- A) Endocrine advantage - Capable of affecting cells at distant sites, disadvantage - Slow response due to travel through the circulatory system.
- B) Autocrine advantage - Quick response as the signal is self-targeting, disadvantage - Limited to the cell that secretes the signaling molecule.