In this episode, we focus on biosignaling and cover how cells communicate through systems like voltage-gated and ligand-gated ion channels, using real-world examples such as neuronal signaling and muscle contraction.

We also break down the role of enzyme-linked receptors, specifically receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs), and explore how these pathways are involved in cell growth and cancer. Additionally, we take a detailed look at G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) and their role in activating secondary messenger systems like cyclic AMP (cAMP).

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Jump into the conversation:

(00:00 ) Intro

(00:32 ) Overview of Biosignaling

(01:05 ) Introduction to Biosignaling and its Importance

(01:49 ) Stimulus-Response Concept: Fight or flight, glucose homeostasis, transcription regulation

(02:34 ) Voltage-Gated Ion Channels: Activated by changes in membrane potential

(03:29 ) Action Potential: Sodium channels and signal propagation

(05:01 ) Ligand-Gated Ion Channels: Role in neuron-to-neuron signaling

(06:01 ) Muscle Contraction: Acetylcholine's role in skeletal muscle contraction

(07:29 ) Misconception on Calcium: Sodium initiates muscle cell depolarization, not calcium

(08:33 ) Enzyme-Linked Receptors: Focus on receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs)

(09:39 ) RTKs and Cancer: How RTK signaling pathways are linked to cancer

(12:00 ) G-Protein Coupled Receptors (GPCR): Structure and function of GPCRs

(14:43 ) Adenylate Cyclase and cAMP: Role of GTP in activating adenylate cyclase and producing cAMP

(18:10 ) Quiz Question 1: Ion specificity in potassium channels

(22:54 ) Quiz Question 2: Hypertension treatment and G-protein pathways

(25:00 ) Biosignaling as the foundation for cellular responses