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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements about cell signaling is correct?
A
Cell signaling is only important during embryonic development and not in adult organisms.
B
Cell signaling only occurs in prokaryotic cells and not in eukaryotic cells.
C
Cell signaling always requires direct physical contact between two cells.
D
Cell signaling allows cells to communicate with each other through the release and detection of signaling molecules.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the concept of cell signaling. Cell signaling is a fundamental process that allows cells to communicate with each other, coordinating their activities to maintain homeostasis, respond to environmental changes, and regulate growth and development.
Step 2: Evaluate the first statement: 'Cell signaling is only important during embryonic development and not in adult organisms.' This is incorrect because cell signaling is crucial throughout the life of an organism, including in adult organisms, for processes like immune responses, tissue repair, and maintaining homeostasis.
Step 3: Evaluate the second statement: 'Cell signaling only occurs in prokaryotic cells and not in eukaryotic cells.' This is incorrect because cell signaling occurs in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, although the mechanisms may differ. For example, quorum sensing is a form of signaling in prokaryotes, while eukaryotes use complex pathways like hormone signaling.
Step 4: Evaluate the third statement: 'Cell signaling always requires direct physical contact between two cells.' This is incorrect because cell signaling can occur through various mechanisms, including direct contact (e.g., gap junctions), paracrine signaling (local signaling), endocrine signaling (long-distance signaling via hormones), and autocrine signaling (self-signaling).
Step 5: Evaluate the fourth statement: 'Cell signaling allows cells to communicate with each other through the release and detection of signaling molecules.' This is correct because signaling molecules, such as hormones, neurotransmitters, and cytokines, are released by one cell and detected by receptors on another cell, triggering a response.