The major difference between a cell that responds to a signal and one that does not is the presence of a
A) DNA sequence that binds to the signal.
B) nearby blood vessel.
C) receptor.
D) second messenger.
E) transduction pathway.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The presence of a receptor is the major difference between a cell that responds to a signal and one that does not. Receptors are proteins on the surface of the cell that bind to specific signals, such as hormones or neurotransmitters, and trigger a response in the cell.

Answer: A, D, E can be eliminated
 Although DNA sequence, second messenger, and transduction pathway are all involved in signal transduction and cellular response, they are not specific to the presence or absence of a response to a signal. A nearby blood vessel is also not directly related to cellular response to a signal.

The Major Difference Between a Cell That Responds to a Signal