Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

paracrine

Adjective

/ˈpærəˌkraɪn/

Definition

Relating to the method of cell signaling in which a cell produces a signal to induce changes in nearby cells.

Examples

The paracrine signaling between immune cells helps regulate the immune response.
In the study of development, paracrine factors can influence the growth of surrounding tissues.
Growth factors often act in a paracrine manner, affecting nearby cells to encourage proliferation.

Meaning

Paracrine signaling involves the release of signaling molecules that affect neighboring cells within a short distance, rather than traveling through the bloodstream.