szignáltranszdukciós

Signal transduction refers to the process by which a cell converts one kind of signal or stimulus into another. This often involves a cascade of biochemical reactions, where a signal from outside the cell is relayed through a series of molecules to produce a response inside the cell. These external signals can be diverse, including hormones, neurotransmitters, growth factors, or even physical stimuli like light or pressure.

The general pathway of signal transduction typically begins with a signaling molecule, or ligand, binding to a specific receptor protein on the cell surface or within the cell. This binding event triggers a conformational change in the receptor, which in turn activates intracellular signaling molecules. These molecules often act as second messengers, amplifying the initial signal and propagating it through a signaling pathway. This pathway may involve a series of protein phosphorylations or other modifications that ultimately lead to a cellular response.

Cellular responses mediated by signal transduction are varied and essential for cellular function and organismal health. They can include changes in gene expression, alterations in metabolic activity, cell growth and division, or programmed cell death (apoptosis). Dysregulation of signal transduction pathways is implicated in numerous diseases, including cancer, diabetes, and inflammatory disorders, making it a critical area of biological research. Understanding these pathways is key to developing targeted therapies for these conditions.