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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements about cell signaling is true?
A
Cell signaling allows cells to communicate and coordinate their activities.
B
Cell signaling always requires direct physical contact between cells.
C
Cell signaling only occurs in prokaryotic cells.
D
Cell signaling is not involved in the regulation of gene expression.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the concept of cell signaling. Cell signaling is the process by which cells communicate with each other to coordinate their activities. This communication can occur through chemical signals, physical contact, or other mechanisms.
Step 2: Evaluate the first statement: 'Cell signaling allows cells to communicate and coordinate their activities.' This is a fundamental aspect of cell signaling and is generally true. Cells use signaling pathways to regulate processes such as growth, immune responses, and gene expression.
Step 3: Analyze the second statement: 'Cell signaling always requires direct physical contact between cells.' This is not true. While some signaling mechanisms, such as juxtacrine signaling, require direct contact, other types, like endocrine signaling, involve signals traveling through the bloodstream or extracellular fluid.
Step 4: Examine the third statement: 'Cell signaling only occurs in prokaryotic cells.' This is incorrect. Cell signaling occurs in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. In fact, eukaryotic cells have highly complex signaling pathways, such as those involving hormones and neurotransmitters.
Step 5: Assess the fourth statement: 'Cell signaling is not involved in the regulation of gene expression.' This is false. Cell signaling often leads to changes in gene expression, as signals can activate transcription factors that regulate the expression of specific genes.