[Campbell Biology P.264] A researcher observes a signaling process where a cell releases 'gr... | Practice Question

A researcher observes a signaling process where a cell releases 'growth factors' that diffuse a short distance to stimulate nearby target cells to grow and divide. What type of signaling is this an example of?

  • A: Paracrine signaling
  • B: Synaptic signaling
  • C: Direct contact signaling
  • D: Endocrine (hormonal) signaling

Explanation

The description directly matches the definition of paracrine signaling: 'This type of local signaling in animals is called paracrine signaling Figure 11.5a . One class of local regulators in animals, growth factors, consists of compounds that stimulate nearby target cells to grow and divide.'