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Multiple Choice
Which type of cell signaling is exemplified when a sudden release of luteinizing hormone (LH) by the anterior pituitary triggers ovulation in the ovaries?
A
Synaptic signaling
B
Paracrine signaling
C
Autocrine signaling
D
Endocrine signaling
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of cell signaling: Cell signaling refers to the mechanisms by which cells communicate with each other to coordinate various physiological processes. There are different types of signaling based on the distance between the signaling cell and the target cell.
Review the types of signaling: Synaptic signaling involves neurotransmitters released at synapses, paracrine signaling involves local signaling to nearby cells, autocrine signaling involves a cell signaling to itself, and endocrine signaling involves hormones traveling through the bloodstream to distant target cells.
Analyze the scenario: The problem describes a sudden release of luteinizing hormone (LH) by the anterior pituitary, which travels through the bloodstream to reach the ovaries and trigger ovulation. This indicates that the signaling molecule (LH) is acting on a distant target organ.
Match the scenario to the correct signaling type: Since LH is released into the bloodstream and affects a distant organ (the ovaries), this is characteristic of endocrine signaling, where hormones are distributed systemically to distant targets.
Conclude the reasoning: Based on the description and the definition of endocrine signaling, the correct answer is endocrine signaling, as it involves hormone release into the bloodstream to act on distant target cells.