Paracrine Communication
Direct Communication
Occurs across synaptic clefts
Uses chemical signals to transfer information from cell to cell within single tissue
Occurs between two cells of same type
Exchange of ions and molecules between adjacent cells across gap junctions
Limited to a very specific area
Most common form of intercellular communication
Alters metabolic activities of many tissues and organs simultaneously
Highly specialized and relatively rare
Endocrine Communication
Endocrine cells release chemicals (hormones) into bloodstream
Ideal for crisis management
Chemical message is “neurotransmitter”
