Cell-Cell Communication

Cells communicate with each other via different types of signalling, allowing chemicals to travel to target sites. There are four main types of signalling: Paracrine, Endocrine, Autocrine and Direct.

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Paracrine signalling exists between local cells. Signals evoke fast responses and last for a very limited amount of time, the reason being the degradation of the paracrine ligands.

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Endocrine signalling happens between distant cells and is orchestrated by hormones. These hormones are secreted by specific endocrine cells, and they travel to the target cell. They produce slow, long-lasting response.

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Autocrine signals come from signalling cells, able to bind to the ligand that is released, meaning the signalling and target cells can be either a similar or the same cell.

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The Direct signalling occurs via transferring signalling molecules across gap junctions between neighbouring cells.

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