Some of the stem cells in bone become osteoclasts during differentiation.Researchers have shown that chemical signals called cytokines are released into the extracellular fluid by bone stem cells in response to environmental stimuli.The researchers also have shown that the cytokines induce these same bone stem cells to differentiate into osteoclasts.This example illustrates how a(n) _______ signal functions in the human body.
A) autocrine
B) hormone
C) paracrine
D) juxtacrine
E) intracellular

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Autocrine signals are those where the cell that secretes the signal molecule is also the target of that signal. In this scenario, bone stem cells release cytokines that then act on the same cells to induce differentiation into osteoclasts, which is characteristic of autocrine signaling.

Some of the Stem Cells in Bone Become Osteoclasts During