Chemical signals, including cytokines, growth factors, and hormones, are critical in mediating communication between cells. These signals bind to specific receptors on target cells, triggering intracellular pathways that dictate cellular responses. For example, growth factors like EGF (epidermal growth factor) can stimulate cell division, while cytokines like TNF-α can induce inflammation. Disruption in these signaling pathways can result in pathological conditions such as chronic inflammation and cancer.
