Cell Signaling Glossary

Key terms used in cell signaling and immune signaling content. For educational reference only.

Signal transduction: The process by which a cell converts an external signal into a response inside the cell.
Cytokine: Small proteins released by cells that affect signaling and communication between cells.
Receptor: A molecule on or in a cell that binds a specific signal and triggers a cellular response.
Chemokine: Signaling proteins that guide cell migration, including stem cell homing.
Paracrine signaling: Communication where a cell releases signals that affect nearby cells.