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Cellular Signaling Mechanisms

Meaning

Cellular Signaling Mechanisms describe the intricate biochemical cascades by which cells receive, process, and respond to external hormonal or environmental cues. These pathways translate the presence of a circulating signal, like an active steroid or peptide, into a specific intracellular action, such as gene transcription or enzyme activation. Understanding these mechanisms is paramount because hormonal efficacy depends entirely on the fidelity of the signal transduction apparatus within the target cell. Disruptions here lead to endocrine resistance regardless of circulating levels.