7 - Receptor-Effector Signalling via G-proteins

Question 1

Describe how signalling molecules (e.g. hormones, neurotransmitters, growth factors and environmental stimuli such as light and odours) are recognised by cells and how an appropriate response is coordinated

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Question 2

Describe the signalling cascade consisting of 3 fundamental components: a receptor, a guanine nucleotide binding protein (or G protein) and an effector molecule. which may be an enzyme (e.g. adenyl cyclase) or an ion channel.

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Question 3

Describe the various receptor-effector mechanisms; receptors linked to ion channels, to G-proteins or to protein kinases

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Question 4

Explain the concepts of second messengers and signalling cascades

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Question 5

Discuss the importance of cyclic nucleotides and the control of intracellular Ca++ concentration in cell signalling

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Question 6

Describe how the activation or inhibition of effector molecules (e.g. an enzyme or an ion channel), following activation by signalling molecules, leads to specific cellular responses

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Question 7

Describe the role of second messenger molecules (e.g. cyclic AMP, inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate (IP3) in intracellular signalling cascades

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Question 8

Discuss important and clinically relevant examples in which signal transduction pathways bring about physiological changes in key cell function and how such pathways can be pharmacologically manipulated to therapeutic advantage

Answer 8

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