108k views
1 vote
A signal molecule is also known as a(n) _____?

1) protein
2) receptor
3) initiator
4) ligand
5) key

1 Answer

7 votes

Final answer:

A signal molecule is known as a ligand, which binds to a receptor protein on a target cell, initiating a signaling pathway within the cell.

Step-by-step explanation:

A signal molecule is also known as a ligand. Ligands are molecules that bind to another specific molecule, often a receptor protein in or on a target cell, triggering a cascade of events within the cell known as a signaling pathway or cascade. This process can result in changes within the cell, such as alterations in gene expression or metabolic activity. Ligands are a crucial part of cell signaling, as they initiate the communication between cells that is necessary for various biological processes.

User DoomGoober
by
8.6k points
Welcome to QAmmunity.org, where you can ask questions and receive answers from other members of our community.