生化学および細胞生物学ジャーナル

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Understanding Cell Signaling Pathways: An Intricate Network of Cellular Communication

James Franklin

Cell signaling pathways play a critical role in cellular communication and are essential for the proper functioning of living organisms. These pathways enable cells to transmit and receive information, coordinating various physiological processes such as growth, development, immune response, and cell survival. This article provides an overview of cell signaling pathways, highlighting their components and significance in maintaining cellular homeostasis. Cell signaling pathways involve the transmission of signals from the extracellular environment to the cell's interior, triggering a cascade of molecular events. Signaling molecules, including hormones, growth factors, and neurotransmitters, bind to specific receptors on the cell surface, initiating intracellular signaling cascades. These cascades involve various proteins, such as kinases, phosphatases, G proteins, and transcription factors, which relay the signal and mediate cellular responses.