In one type, surface proteins on the signaller cell interact with surface proteins on the receiver cell. There are three sub-types of juxtacrine signalling. This form of signalling is employed by cells of the immune system, amongst others. This signalling molecule then binds to receptors on the same cell, triggering changes within that cell. The cell releases a signalling molecule, such as a hormone or cytokine. Autocrine SignallingĪutocrine signalling is used by cells to effect changes within themselves. A brief overview of each of these is provided below. The type of signalling used in the endocrine system is, as the name suggests, endocrine signalling. In increasing order of range, the four signalling strategies are: These vary in the range and type of signalling molecule used. There are four main types of cell signalling used to convey messages within the body.
It works in concert with the nervous system, however, instead of short term rapid changes, it creates slower acting, longer-lasting changes in the body. It consists of a series of glands that interact with each other and external factors to control organs located far away from them by secreting hormones into the bloodstream.
The endocrine system is one of the key regulatory systems within the body.
