What are the differences between paracrine signaling and autocrine signaling?

Question

Accepted Answer

Basis of differentiation

Paracrine signaling

Autocrine signaling

Definition

Paracrine signaling is when a cell signals to its adjacent cells using chemical messengers

Autocrine signaling refers to a cell signaling itself using chemical messengers

Target cells

Targets the adjacent cells

Target the cells of production; itself

Signaling molecules

Neurotransmitters and hormones are the signaling molecules

Cytokines and growth factors are the main types of signaling molecules involved

Significance

Signal transmission occurs through the synaptic gap during paracrine signaling; important for cell communication and development

Is involved in cell differentiation during early embryo development to ensure cells grow into tissue and have correct function

Basis of differentiation	Paracrine signaling	Autocrine signaling
Definition	Paracrine signaling is when a cell signals to its adjacent cells using chemical messengers	Autocrine signaling refers to a cell signaling itself using chemical messengers
Target cells	Targets the adjacent cells	Target the cells of production; itself
Signaling molecules	Neurotransmitters and hormones are the signaling molecules	Cytokines and growth factors are the main types of signaling molecules involved
Significance	Signal transmission occurs through the synaptic gap during paracrine signaling; important for cell communication and development	Is involved in cell differentiation during early embryo development to ensure cells grow into tissue and have correct function