Definition and research guide
This page combines a MeSH definition, publication statistics and selected research abstracts. It is a starting point for reading the literature, not a medical textbook or a systematic evidence review.
Content available: 4 complete abstracts (857 words), 10 references. Full article text is not stored or reproduced here; follow the PMID, DOI or PMC links to read the original sources and their access terms.
Definition
The intracellular transfer of information (biological activation/inhibition) through a signal pathway. In each signal transduction system, an activation/inhibition signal from a biologically active molecule (hormone, neurotransmitter) is mediated via the coupling of a receptor/enzyme to a second messenger system or to an ion channel. Signal transduction plays an important role in activating cellular functions, cell differentiation, and cell proliferation. Examples of signal transduction systems are the gamma-aminobutyric acid-postsynaptic receptor-calcium ion channel system, the receptor-mediated T-cell activation pathway, and the receptor-mediated activation of phospholipases. Those coupled to membrane depolarization or intracellular release of calcium include the receptor-mediated activation of cytotoxic functions in granulocytes and the synaptic potentiation of protein kinase activation. Some signal transduction pathways may be part of larger signal transduction pathways; for example, protein kinase activation is part of the platelet activation signal pathway.
Definition: NLM Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) scope note (Public domain (U.S. National Library of Medicine); attribution requested). View the MeSH record.
Also known as: Signal Transductions; Transduction, Signal; Transductions, Signal; Cell Signaling; Signal Transduction Systems; Signal Transduction System; System, Signal Transduction; Systems, Signal Transduction.
Where it fits in the MeSH classification
- Broader topics
- Biochemical Phenomena; Cell Physiological Phenomena
- Narrower topics
- cGAS-STING Signaling Pathway; Hippo Signaling Pathway; Ion Channel Gating; Light Signal Transduction; MAP Kinase Signaling System; Mechanotransduction, Cellular; Non-Neuronal Cholinergic System; Second Messenger Systems; Synaptic Transmission; Wnt Signaling Pathway; Excitation Contraction Coupling
- See also
- Ion Channels
Related concepts
- Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid-
Research landscape
PubMed indexes 780,810 records tagged with the MeSH heading “Signal Transduction” (counts retrieved 2026-10-29). 198,361 of them (25.4%) were published from 2020 onward, and the busiest period so far is 2010-2019 with 313,692 records.
Reviews account for 153,824 records (19.7%) and meta-analyses for 628. Randomized controlled trials number 1,542 (0.2%) as a share of all records on the topic. Randomized trials make up only a small share of this literature, so much of what is known comes from laboratory, observational or descriptive work.
Show the data
| Period | Records |
|---|---|
| through 1999 | 87,767 |
| 2000-2009 | 180,990 |
| 2010-2019 | 313,692 |
| 2020 onward | 198,361 |
Publication-type chart data
| Type | Records | Share |
|---|---|---|
| Reviews | 153,824 | 19.7% |
| Meta-analyses | 628 | 0.1% |
| Randomized controlled trials | 1,542 | 0.2% |
Method: PubMed query "Signal Transduction"[MeSH Terms] with publication-type and date filters, retrieved 2026-10-29.
Reading the evidence in molecular biology
Molecular biology establishes mechanisms through controlled experiments, often in simplified systems such as purified proteins, cultured cells or model organisms. Such work can show what is possible in a defined system, but whether a pathway matters in a whole organism or in human disease needs further evidence. Check the experimental system, whether findings were reproduced by independent groups, and whether the authors tested the mechanism directly or inferred it from correlation.
Evidence from open-access studies
These open-access studies come from PubMed’s best-match results for this heading (papers whose main topic it is), ranked here by citation count, with one recent addition. Each abstract is reproduced in full under its recorded open licence so that you can read the authors’ own words. They illustrate the literature; they are not a systematic summary of it. Citation counts measure attention, not reliability or clinical benefit.
| Study / authors | Year | Source label / design | Europe PMC citations | Licence / source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temporal coding enables hyperacuity in event-based vision | 2026 | Research article Design not recorded in structured metadata | 2 | cc by PMID 42754584 · DOI · PMC13586331 |
| Region-specific mechanosensation modulates Drosophila postural control behaviour | 2026 | Research article Design not recorded in structured metadata | 1 | cc by PMID 42776575 · DOI · PMC13600696 |
| Voltage-sensor conformational microenvironments encode isoform-selective ion channel activation | 2026 | Research article Design not recorded in structured metadata | 1 | cc by PMID 42776753 · DOI · PMC13624614 |
| Gas signaling molecule: a new research focus in the treatment of erectile dysfunction | 2027 | Review article Design not recorded in structured metadata | 0 | cc by PMID 42734459 · DOI · PMC13667361 |
Temporal coding enables hyperacuity in event-based vision [1]
Abstract reading summary — source excerpts
- Opening excerpt
- Although the eye may appear static during fixation, it is in constant motion-transforming visual input into rich spatio-temporal streams of neuronal activity.
- Closing excerpt
- Together, these findings offer a new perspective on visual perception, open pathways for advancing neuromorphic engineering and energy-efficient AI vision systems, and provide a framework for testing hypotheses about biological vision.
- Interpretation limits
- Verbatim excerpts from the authors’ abstract; the closing excerpt may describe a finding, limitation or recommendation. Design, population, effect size and uncertainty have not been independently extracted or appraised. Read the complete abstract and linked paper before interpreting the findings.
Read complete abstract (190 words)
Although the eye may appear static during fixation, it is in constant motion-transforming visual input into rich spatio-temporal streams of neuronal activity. These movements challenge the classical view that visual acuity derives from spatial sampling, suggesting that hyperacuity can emerge from precise temporal encoding. Here we show that artificial systems can exploit this principle using retina-like event-based (EB) sensing, a neuromorphic approach in which the sensor emits asynchronous spikes in response to luminance changes. Using an EB camera undergoing controlled "fixational" motion over tiny, pixelated images, we generated datasets in which recognition depends on sub-pixel information. We found that artificial neural networks trained on these spatio-temporal event streams relied crucially on the precise temporal information and outperformed conventional frame-based models. The learned representations also supported Vernier-style sub-pixel discrimination, demonstrating hyperacuity-like behavior in the artificial bio-mimetic system. These results show that active event-based sensing can use precise timing to recover spatial details that are unrecoverable from a static single frame. Together, these findings offer a new perspective on visual perception, open pathways for advancing neuromorphic engineering and energy-efficient AI vision systems, and provide a framework for testing hypotheses about biological vision.
Abstract reproduced from the open-access article under the recorded cc by licence; © the authors. PMID 42754584 · DOI · PMC13586331
Region-specific mechanosensation modulates Drosophila postural control behaviour [2]
Abstract reading summary — source excerpts
- Opening excerpt
- The relation between regional morphological features derived from the bilaterian body plan and the behaviours necessary to extract utility from such structures is not well understood.
- Closing excerpt
- Altogether, our work shows that region-specific mechanosensory processes mediated by multidendritic sensory neurons and instructed via Hox gene inputs are essential for self-righting, providing a link between regional structural features and an adaptive and widely evolutionarily conserved postural control behaviour.
- Interpretation limits
- Verbatim excerpts from the authors’ abstract; the closing excerpt may describe a finding, limitation or recommendation. Design, population, effect size and uncertainty have not been independently extracted or appraised. Read the complete abstract and linked paper before interpreting the findings.
Read complete abstract (291 words)
The relation between regional morphological features derived from the bilaterian body plan and the behaviours necessary to extract utility from such structures is not well understood. Here, we use the Drosophila larva to investigate this 'form-function' problem focusing on the mapping of the regional stimuli that trigger an adaptive and evolutionarily conserved behaviour termed self-righting: a postural control system that allows the animal to restore its natural position if turned upside-down. Through the development of new methodologies that allow regionally restricted mechanical stimulation and zonal-specific neuronal optogenetics, we find that multidendritic sensory neuron inhibition in anterior areas (thoracic/anterior abdominal) has a profound effect on self-righting performance, while inhibition of posterior sensory elements (mid and posterior abdomen) produces no effects. To gain insight into how regional neuronal inhibition affects the different subcomponents of the self-righting sequence we applied a deep neural network tracking method which revealed that reduction of neural activity in anterior sensory neurons primarily increases head casting behaviour and that this, in turn, is strongly correlated with abnormally long self-righting times. Furthermore, to explore the mechanistic bases of our behavioural observations, we considered the hypothesis that the Hox genes - well known for their roles in axial developmental patterning - might play a role in the functional specification of multidendritic sensory neurons along the body axis. Molecular expression analysis of FACS-sorted neural populations, fluorescent immunolabelling and neuron-specific knockdown experiments demonstrate that normal sensory neuron expression of the Hox genes Antennapedia and Abdominal-b is necessary for self-righting in the Drosophila larva. Altogether, our work shows that region-specific mechanosensory processes mediated by multidendritic sensory neurons and instructed via Hox gene inputs are essential for self-righting, providing a link between regional structural features and an adaptive and widely evolutionarily conserved postural control behaviour.
Abstract reproduced from the open-access article under the recorded cc by licence; © the authors. PMID 42776575 · DOI · PMC13600696
Voltage-sensor conformational microenvironments encode isoform-selective ion channel activation [3]
Abstract reading summary — source excerpts
- Opening excerpt
- Isoform-selective opening of voltage-gated potassium (Kv) channels is desirable for its therapeutic potential yet mechanistically little-understood.
- Closing excerpt
- The findings establish a mechanistic framework in which isoform selectivity arises from VSD conformational microenvironments rather than canonical binding determinants and highlight the voltage sensor as a tunable target for developing selective Kv channel openers.
- Interpretation limits
- Verbatim excerpts from the authors’ abstract; the closing excerpt may describe a finding, limitation or recommendation. Design, population, effect size and uncertainty have not been independently extracted or appraised. Read the complete abstract and linked paper before interpreting the findings.
Read complete abstract (188 words)
Isoform-selective opening of voltage-gated potassium (Kv) channels is desirable for its therapeutic potential yet mechanistically little-understood. Rosemary leaf metabolite carnosic acid (CA) is a high-efficacy opener of the neuronal Kv7.3 channel but exerts minimal effects on Kv7.2 or Kv7.2/3 heteromers. Here, using alanine-scanning mutagenesis, electrophysiology, radioligand binding, and all-atom molecular dynamics simulations, we found that CA achieves high-efficacy activation of Kv7.3 by binding at the extracellular cap of the voltage-sensing domain (VSD), independent of the canonical retigabine pore binding site. Kv7.3 samples a binding-competent VSD conformation absent in Kv7.2, characterized by an expanded extracellular pocket and a favorable electrostatic environment. Central to this mechanism, Kv7.3-L226 functions as a hydrophobic latch that tunes the energetic landscape of the voltage sensor to control ligand efficacy. Unexpectedly, CA potentiates Kv7.2/3 activation by retigabine via ligand-initiated positive allosteric coupling between the VSD and pore, thus enhancing the anticonvulsant action of retigabine despite CA lacking standalone anticonvulsant activity. The findings establish a mechanistic framework in which isoform selectivity arises from VSD conformational microenvironments rather than canonical binding determinants and highlight the voltage sensor as a tunable target for developing selective Kv channel openers.
Abstract reproduced from the open-access article under the recorded cc by licence; © the authors. PMID 42776753 · DOI · PMC13624614
Gas signaling molecule: a new research focus in the treatment of erectile dysfunction [4]
Abstract reading summary — source excerpts
- Opening excerpt
- Gas signaling molecules, including nitric oxide, carbon monoxide, and hydrogen sulfide, have recently gained attention in erectile dysfunction treatment research because of their roles in regulating blood vessel function, reducing oxidative stress, and protecting nerves and other cells.
- Closing excerpt
- The development of responsive delivery systems, combinations of multiple gases, and additional therapies for difficult cases suggests that gas signaling molecules could transform erectile dysfunction treatment.
- Interpretation limits
- Verbatim excerpts from the authors’ abstract; the closing excerpt may describe a finding, limitation or recommendation. Design, population, effect size and uncertainty have not been independently extracted or appraised. Read the complete abstract and linked paper before interpreting the findings.
Read complete abstract (188 words)
Gas signaling molecules, including nitric oxide, carbon monoxide, and hydrogen sulfide, have recently gained attention in erectile dysfunction treatment research because of their roles in regulating blood vessel function, reducing oxidative stress, and protecting nerves and other cells. This article reviews how nitric oxide, carbon monoxide, and hydrogen sulfide are involved in the development of erectile dysfunction and their potential as treatments. The review focuses on how these gases improve blood vessel function, relax smooth muscles, repair nerve function, and reduce tissue scarring. Current research shows that methods of gas delivery, especially those using nanocarriers or prodrugs, greatly increase how well these gases are absorbed and where they act in the body. Early animal studies and initial clinical trials support the effectiveness of these gasotransmitters in treating various causes of erectile dysfunction, including diabetes, aging, and nerve damage. Although challenges remain in controlling the speed of delivery, determining the appropriate dosage, and tailoring treatment to individual patients, there is reason for optimism. The development of responsive delivery systems, combinations of multiple gases, and additional therapies for difficult cases suggests that gas signaling molecules could transform erectile dysfunction treatment.
Abstract reproduced from the open-access article under the recorded cc by licence; © the authors. PMID 42734459 · DOI · PMC13667361
Key reviews and meta-analyses
The most cited review-type papers among PubMed’s best-match results for this heading, listed with bibliographic details only. Follow the links for the full text and access terms.
- Research article Genome-wide association analyses identify 18 new loci associated with serum urate concentrations [5]
- Research article Induction of a common microglia gene expression signature by aging and neurodegenerative conditions: a co-expression meta-analysis [6]
- Research article Genetic association study of QT interval highlights role for calcium signaling pathways in myocardial repolarization [7]
- Research article Association between digital smart device use and myopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis [8]
- Research article Common genetic variants associated with cognitive performance identified using the proxy-phenotype method [9]
- Research article Hydrogen Peroxide: Its Role in Plant Biology and Crosstalk with Signalling Networks [10]
References
- Assa E, Rivkind A, Kreiserman M, Khan FS, Khan S, Ahissar E. Temporal coding enables hyperacuity in event-based vision. . 2026. PMID 42754584 · DOI · PMC13586331
- Roseby W, Menzies JAC, Lipscomb VA, Alonso CR. Region-specific mechanosensation modulates Drosophila postural control behaviour. . 2026. PMID 42776575 · DOI · PMC13600696
- Manville RW, Foglia L, Yoshimura RF, Santos DE, Yu A, Abbott GW. Voltage-sensor conformational microenvironments encode isoform-selective ion channel activation. . 2026. PMID 42776753 · DOI · PMC13624614
- Dai X, Zhou Z. Gas signaling molecule: a new research focus in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. . 2027. PMID 42734459 · DOI · PMC13667361
- Köttgen A, Albrecht E, Teumer A, Vitart V, Krumsiek J, Hundertmark C, et al.. Genome-wide association analyses identify 18 new loci associated with serum urate concentrations. Nat Genet. 2013. PMID 23263486 · DOI · PMC3663712
- Holtman IR, Raj DD, Miller JA, Schaafsma W, Yin Z, Brouwer N, et al.. Induction of a common microglia gene expression signature by aging and neurodegenerative conditions: a co-expression meta-analysis. Acta Neuropathol Commun. 2015. PMID 26001565 · DOI · PMC4489356
- Arking DE, Pulit SL, Crotti L, van der Harst P, Munroe PB, Koopmann TT, et al.. Genetic association study of QT interval highlights role for calcium signaling pathways in myocardial repolarization. Nat Genet. 2014. PMID 24952745 · DOI · PMC4124521
- Foreman J, Salim AT, Praveen A, Fonseka D, Ting DSW, Guang He M, et al.. Association between digital smart device use and myopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Lancet Digit Health. 2021. PMID 34625399 · DOI
- Rietveld CA, Esko T, Davies G, Pers TH, Turley P, Benyamin B, et al.. Common genetic variants associated with cognitive performance identified using the proxy-phenotype method. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2014. PMID 25201988 · DOI · PMC4183313
- Černý M, Habánová H, Berka M, Luklová M, Brzobohatý B. Hydrogen Peroxide: Its Role in Plant Biology and Crosstalk with Signalling Networks. Int J Mol Sci. 2018. PMID 30231521 · DOI · PMC6163176
About this article
- Sources
- NLM Medical Subject Headings (definition, synonyms); NCBI PubMed (counts, identifiers); Europe PMC (open-access abstracts and citation counts).
- Verification
- Every reference was resolved against PubMed on 2026-10-31; title, year and DOI matched.
- Review state
- automated source verified; no human expert review has been recorded yet.
- Version
- 1, last updated 2026-10-29.
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Evidence strength
EvidenceHelix's computed view of the study designs behind this topic: how common meta-analyses, randomized trials and reviews are, how recent the literature is, and a plain-language reading. It describes the design mix of the literature. It is not a quality appraisal of any study, and it is not medical advice.