Celnaarcel

Celnaarcel refers to intercellular communication and interaction between neighboring cells, essential for the coordinated function of multicellular organisms. It encompasses direct cell contact, signaling molecules, and the transfer of materials that allow cells to influence each other's behavior and fate.

Direct contact mechanisms include gap junctions in animals, formed by connexin or pannexin channels that permit the diffusion of ions and small metabolites; cadherin-based junctions and receptor–ligand interactions such as Notch signaling, which require membrane contact. In plants, plasmodesmata serve a similar role, enabling the movement of proteins, RNAs, and other signals between cells. Indirect communication relies on secreted ligands, including growth factors, cytokines, and neurotransmitters, which act at short (paracrine or autocrine) or long range (endocrine) to regulate receptors on target cells. Extracellular vesicles, including exosomes, can carry proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids between cells, broadening the range of transferable information. Tunneling nanotubes provide another route for cytoplasmic transfer in some contexts.

Roles and importance: celnaarcel signaling guides tissue patterning during development, maintains homeostasis, coordinates immune responses, and supports wound healing and neural communication. It is shaped by the cellular environment, extracellular matrix, and mechanical cues.

Dysregulation of intercellular signaling is linked to diseases such as cancer, inflammatory conditions, and neurodegeneration. Because it integrates multiple signals, celnaarcel communication is a major focus for research and therapy, including approaches that modulate receptors, ligands, or junctional pathways.