Cell Signaling
What type of receptor is Harry Kinase in the story?
GPCR (G-protein coupled receptor)
What organelle is known as the site of ATP production and what process occurs there?
The mitochondria, where cellular respiration occurs.
Who is the main antagonist that disrupts cellular signaling in the story?
Lord Voldemembrane
What is the main process by which glucose is regulated in cells?
Insulin signaling
What common metabolic disorder is characterized by the body’s inability to produce enough insulin, often leading to high blood sugar levels?
Type-1 Diabetes
What is the primary function of ligands in cellular signaling?
To bind to receptors and initiate a signaling cascade
What organelle is involved in the synthesis of proteins?
Phospholipids, which form a bilayer that is selectively permeable.
Who is Harry’s friend that represents paracrine signaling?
Ron Ligand
What is phosphorylation, and why is it important in signaling?
The addition of a phosphate group to a protein, which activates or deactivates it.
What is the term for uncontrolled cell growth often caused by dysregulated signaling?
Cancer
What are second messengers, and why are they important?
Second messengers are small molecules that relay signals inside the cell, crucial for transmitting information.
What are the primary functions of the rough endoplasmic reticulum, and how does it differ from the smooth endoplasmic reticulum?
To synthesize and process proteins (rough ER has ribosomes), while the smooth ER is involved in lipid synthesis and detoxification.
Which professor teaches about insulin signaling?
Professor Insulinase
What pathway is targeted by Voldemembrane to cause uncontrolled cell division?
MAP kinase pathway
What type of signaling disruption can lead to apoptosis in the cell kingdom?
Uncontrolled calcium signaling
What signaling type involves long-distance communication through hormones?
Endocrine signaling
What structure is responsible for the assembly of ribosomal RNA and proteins, and where is it located?
The nucleolus, located within the nucleus.
What is the name of the artifact that can control signals within the cell kingdom?
Ligand Stone
What cycle is crucial for cellular respiration and energy production?
Krebs cycle
What is the consequence of a malfunctioning GPCR?
It can lead to various diseases, including metabolic disorders.
What term describes the feedback mechanisms that help regulate signaling pathways?
Feedback loops
How do lysosomes maintain cellular homeostasis, and what is the consequence of their dysfunction?
By breaking down waste and cellular debris; dysfunction can lead to accumulation of waste and diseases like Tay-Sachs?
Who guides Harry and his friends through the complexities of signaling?
Professor R. Tase
What is the function of SERCA pumps in cellular signaling?
To transport calcium ions from the cytoplasm into the endoplasmic reticulum.
What condition can arise from the disruption of insulin signaling due to a rogue receptor, leading to impaired glucose uptake and resulting in elevated blood sugar levels?
Insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes.