Hi you guys I am having trouble with the cell communication chapter so I would really appreaciate if someone could help out with this question

"What could happen to the target cells in an animal that lack receptors for local regulators?"
I know that some regulators found in animals are gwoth factors that stimulate cells to grow and multiply. so a possible answer could be that the cells would not be able to multiply but I do not know if they could develop normally in response to neurotransmitters instead. Please help me. Thank you in advance. :)

Hi! I can help you understand the concept behind this question.

In animals, local regulators play a crucial role in cellular communication. They are signaling molecules that are secreted by one cell and act on neighboring cells. These regulators bind to specific receptors on the surface of target cells, triggering a response.

Now, let's address your question:

"What could happen to the target cells in an animal that lack receptors for local regulators?"

If the target cells lack receptors for local regulators, they would be unable to receive and respond to the signaling molecules. Consequently, this could lead to several outcomes:

1. Impaired cell growth and multiplication: As you mentioned, some local regulators, like growth factors, stimulate cell growth and multiplication. Without the appropriate receptors, the target cells would not receive these signals, potentially leading to impaired growth and a reduced ability to multiply.

2. Altered cell development: Local regulators also influence the development and differentiation of cells. For example, neurotransmitters are local regulators involved in neural communication. If the target cells lack receptors for neurotransmitters, they may not develop normally in response to these signaling molecules.

3. Disrupted cell communication: Local regulators also play a role in intercellular communication, allowing cells to coordinate their functions. Without receptors for local regulators, the target cells would be unable to receive important signals from neighboring cells, leading to disruptions in cell communication and coordination.

In summary, if an animal's target cells lack receptors for local regulators, it could result in impaired cell growth and multiplication, altered cell development, and disrupted cell communication.