Cell Signaling - Classification of Intercellular Communication

Classification of Intercellular Communication

Within endocrinology (the study of intercellular signaling in animals) and the endocrine system, intercellular signaling is subdivided into the following classifications:

• Intracrine signals are produced within the target cell.
• Autocrine signals target the cell itself. Sometimes autocrine cells can target cells close by if they are the same type of cell as the emitting cell. An example of this are immune cells.
• Juxtacrine signals target adjacent (touching) cells. These signals are transmitted along cell membranes via protein or lipid components integral to the membrane and are capable of affecting either the emitting cell or cells immediately adjacent.
• Paracrine signals target cells in the vicinity of the emitting cell. Neurotransmitters represent an example.
• Endocrine signals target distant cells. Endocrine cells produce hormones that travel through the blood to reach all parts of the body.