Non-genomic signaling refers to the rapid, often membrane-initiated cellular responses elicited by steroid hormones or other lipophilic messengers that do not involve direct binding to nuclear receptors and subsequent changes in gene transcription. These effects occur within seconds to minutes, contrasting sharply with the slower, hours-long genomic effects. This swift signaling pathway is essential for immediate physiological adjustments, such as rapid changes in vascular tone or neuronal excitability.
Origin
The concept emerged as researchers observed hormone effects that were too fast to be explained by the classic genomic mechanism of altering protein synthesis. The term is a simple negation of “genomic signaling,” highlighting that the action bypasses the nucleus and the genome. This discovery expanded the known mechanisms of hormone action, moving beyond the traditional endocrinology model.
Mechanism
The mechanism involves hormones binding to specific receptors located on the cell membrane or within the cytoplasm, distinct from the classical nuclear receptors. This binding activates various intracellular second messenger systems, including G proteins, protein kinases, and ion channels. These rapid cascades lead to immediate functional changes, such as modifying enzyme activity or altering the flow of ions across the cell membrane.
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