Introduction - Symposium on Intercellular Communication Stuttgart, 1982

Abstract

Intercellular communication is a postulate of complex multicellular organisation. Signal transfer between cells is possible in different ways: 1.) Long distances of up to 1 m may be bridged by molecules which are produced in distinct cells and are released into the extracellular fluid where they are distributed and interact with receptors on the surface of their target cells (e.g., humoral interaction). 2.) Transmitter substances which have a limited life span or which can be inactivated by inhibitor molecules spread signals only over shorter distances (e.g., synaptic cleft, -200nm). 3.) Information can also be exchanged by direct membrane contact when two molecules interact with each other directly or via linker molecules (e.g., immune system). 4.) Intercellular communication is also possible by channels between adjacent cells, which permit the exchange of ions and molecules and the spread of electric currents; many of those pores are arranged in the membranes of the contacting cells as a quasicristalline structure forming the gap junction. A national symposium on "Intercellular Communication" in Stuttgart on 16 and 17 September 1982 serving the aim of increased "interlaboratory communication" covered most of the above aspects.