Table of contents

1. Overview of Cell Biology2h 49m
2. Chemical Components of Cells1h 14m
3. Energy1h 33m
4. DNA, Chromosomes, and Genomes2h 31m
5. DNA to RNA to Protein2h 31m
6. Proteins1h 36m
7. Gene Expression1h 42m
8. Membrane Structure1h 4m
- The Lipid Bilayer
  38m
- Membrane Proteins
  25m
9. Transport Across Membranes1h 52m
10. Anerobic Respiration1h 5m
11. Aerobic Respiration1h 11m
12. Photosynthesis52m
13. Intracellular Protein Transport2h 18m
14. Cell Signaling1h 28m
15. Cytoskeleton and Cell Movement1h 39m
16. Cell Division3h 5m
17. Meiosis and Sexual Reproduction50m
18. Cell Junctions and Tissues48m
19. Stem Cells13m
- Stem Cells
  13m
20. Cancer44m
21. The Immune System1h 6m
22. Techniques in Cell Biology1h 41m

14. Cell Signaling

Overview of Cell Surface Receptors

Cell Biology

14. Cell Signaling

Overview of Cell Surface Receptors

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Multiple Choice

Receptors for signal molecules are typically located where in the cell?

Embedded in the Golgi apparatus

On the cell surface membrane

Inside the nucleus

Within the mitochondria

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the role of receptors: Receptors are proteins that bind to specific signal molecules (ligands) to initiate a cellular response. Their location depends on the type of signal molecule they interact with.

Analyze the nature of signal molecules: Signal molecules can be hydrophilic (water-soluble) or hydrophobic (lipid-soluble). Hydrophilic molecules cannot pass through the lipid bilayer of the cell membrane, so their receptors are typically located on the cell surface.

Consider the cell surface membrane: The cell surface membrane (plasma membrane) is the primary location for receptors that interact with hydrophilic signal molecules, such as hormones or neurotransmitters, because these molecules cannot diffuse through the membrane.

Evaluate the other options: Receptors are not typically embedded in the Golgi apparatus, as the Golgi is involved in protein modification and trafficking. Similarly, receptors inside the nucleus or mitochondria are usually for hydrophobic molecules like steroid hormones, which can diffuse through the membrane.

Conclude that the correct location for most receptors interacting with hydrophilic signal molecules is on the cell surface membrane, as this allows them to detect extracellular signals and transmit them into the cell.