Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

16. The Endocrine System

Introduction to the Endocrine System

Anatomy & Physiology

16. The Endocrine System

Introduction to the Endocrine System

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Problem 1

Textbook Question

The use of a chemical messenger to transfer information from cell to cell within a single tissue is referred to as _____ communication.
(a) Direct
(b) Paracrine
(c) Hormonal
(d) Endocrine

Verified step by step guidance

Step 1: Begin by understanding the concept of cell-to-cell communication. Cells use chemical messengers to transfer information, and the type of communication depends on the distance and method of signal transmission.

Step 2: Review the definitions of the communication types provided in the options: (a) Direct communication involves physical contact between cells through gap junctions. (b) Paracrine communication involves chemical messengers that act locally within the same tissue. (c) Hormonal communication involves chemical messengers (hormones) traveling through the bloodstream to distant targets. (d) Endocrine communication is similar to hormonal communication but emphasizes the role of endocrine glands.

Step 3: Focus on the key phrase in the question: 'transfer information from cell to cell within a single tissue.' This indicates that the communication is localized and does not involve distant targets.

Step 4: Eliminate options that do not fit the description. Direct communication requires physical contact, which is not mentioned in the question. Hormonal and endocrine communication involve distant targets, which are outside the scope of 'within a single tissue.'

Step 5: Conclude that the correct type of communication is paracrine, as it involves chemical messengers acting locally within the same tissue.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Cell Communication

Cell communication is the process by which cells send and receive signals to coordinate their functions. This can occur through various mechanisms, including direct contact, chemical messengers, or electrical signals. Understanding how cells communicate is essential for grasping how tissues and organs function together in a living organism.

Paracrine Signaling

Paracrine signaling is a form of cell communication where a cell releases signaling molecules that affect nearby target cells within the same tissue. This type of signaling is crucial for local responses and coordination among cells, such as in immune responses or tissue repair, distinguishing it from other forms like endocrine signaling, which involves distant communication.

Types of Cell Communication

There are several types of cell communication, including direct, paracrine, hormonal, and endocrine signaling. Direct communication involves physical connections between cells, while hormonal signaling refers to the release of hormones into the bloodstream to affect distant cells. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the mechanisms by which cells interact and respond to their environment.