Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

downstream-effector

Noun

/ˈdaʊnˌstriːm ɪˈfɛktər/

Definition

A downstream effector is a molecule or protein that responds to a signal from an upstream component in a signaling pathway, typically leading to a cellular response.

Examples

When a hormone binds to a receptor, the downstream effectors initiate a complex response inside the cell.
Researchers studied the downstream effectors in cancer cells to understand the treatment resistance.

Meaning

In biological systems, especially in cellular signaling, a downstream effector acts on signals received from upstream pathways, thus triggering a chain of reactions and ultimately affecting cellular processes.