What is the Origin of Command Signals?

This terminology is adopted from control theory, where a 'command' initiates a controlled response, applied here to the hierarchical signaling emanating from the central regulatory centers. It signifies intentional biological direction.

What is the Mechanism of Command Signals?

These signals traverse the circulatory system, binding to specific receptors on target cells to initiate intracellular events. This binding triggers second messenger systems or direct nuclear receptor activation, ultimately modulating gene expression, enzyme activity, and the synthesis or degradation of key cellular components.

Command Signals ∞ Area

Command Signals

Meaning

Command Signals are the primary molecular messengers, overwhelmingly peptide and steroid hormones, released by the endocrine glands that initiate specific, directed physiological changes in distant target tissues. These signals form the core language of systemic regulation. They represent the instruction set for the body.