Did you know…cells communicate just like us?

Did you think your cells were just floating around mindlessly? Not even close! Your cells respond in real time to not only the other cells around them, but also the environment they are in. A cell's main way to communicate is by sending chemical signals, think sending chat or email messages. These cell messages are very specific and are only meant for certain types of cells. Because of this, cells have different receptors on them to pick up different specific messages. Think of it like a lock and a key; a key only works for the specific lock it was made for. When the chemical signal reaches the receptor, it changes the shape of the receptor, which tells the cell what it needs to do. The message is usually to start a change inside that cell.

Another way cells communicate is through something called gap junctions. Gap junctions are small channels that connect 2 cells to each other. Cells can send small signal molecules to each other to tell each cell something important. Think of it like a road that mailmen would drive down to deliver your mail.

So, the same way you can send your friend a text message to chat with them or you can ride down to visit, cells can do the same!