Definition

Relating to a substance that is released by a cell and affects the same cell that produced it.

Example

The autocrine signaling mechanism allows the cell to regulate its own functions.

Conversation

I was reading about how autocrine signaling works in cells.

Oh really? What did you find interesting about it?

It’s fascinating that cells can communicate with themselves through autocrine signals.

Yeah, that definitely changes how we understand cell interactions!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Autocrine → It is formed from "auto-" (meaning self) and "crinis" (from Greek "krinein", meaning to separate or secrete). The term describes a signaling process where a cell secretes a substance that acts on itself.

Memory Tip

Think of 'self' ('auto-') and 'secreting' ('krinein') a signal — that's why autocrine refers to a process where a cell acts on itself.

Visually Confused Words