Why Are Cell Surface Receptors Important in Histology?
In histology, the study of tissue structure and function, cell surface receptors are crucial for understanding how cells interact with their environment. These interactions are vital for:
- Tissue Homeostasis: Receptors help maintain the balance between cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis, ensuring tissue integrity. - Signal Integration: Different types of receptors integrate signals from various sources, allowing cells to adapt to changing conditions. - Pathophysiology: Abnormal receptor functioning is often linked to diseases. For instance, overactive tyrosine kinase receptors are implicated in cancers.