signaling cascades

Signaling cascades are a series of steps where cells communicate and respond to signals, like hormones or other molecules. When a signal binds to a cell, it triggers a chain reaction of molecular events inside the cell, often involving proteins activating each other sequentially. This process amplifies the initial message, leading to a specific response, such as gene activation or cell movement. Think of it as a relay race, where each runner passes the baton to the next, ultimately resulting in a coordinated action within the cell.