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Signal Transduction Pathways

Meaning

Signal Transduction Pathways are the complex, multi-step molecular mechanisms by which a cell converts an extracellular stimulus, such as a hormone binding to its receptor, into a specific intracellular response. These cascades involve a series of biochemical reactions, including phosphorylation and dephosphorylation events, that amplify and distribute the initial signal to ultimately alter gene expression, enzyme activity, or cellular function. The integrity of these pathways is fundamental to all endocrine communication and cellular homeostasis.