signal peptides

Signal peptides are short protein sequences typically found at the beginning of newly synthesized proteins. They act as molecular "address tags," guiding the protein to specific locations within a cell—such as the cell membrane or an organelle like the endoplasmic reticulum. Once the protein reaches its destination, the signal peptide is usually removed. This targeting system ensures proteins are properly directed where they’re needed for the cell to function correctly, playing a crucial role in cellular organization and communication.