CVS Practice Test

Which of the following is NOT a recognized second messenger?

1. cAMP

2. cGMP

3. Diphosphate

4. Inositol triphosphate

The correct answer is: Diphosphate

The correct answer is diphosphate, as it is not recognized as a second messenger in cellular signaling pathways. Second messengers are molecules that relay signals received at cell surface receptors to target molecules inside the cell, further amplifying the signal. Commonly recognized second messengers include cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), and inositol triphosphate (IP3), each of which plays a significant role in various biochemical signaling pathways. cAMP acts as a second messenger in response to hormones like adrenaline, activating protein kinases that lead to diverse physiological effects. Similarly, cGMP is involved in signaling pathways, particularly in smooth muscle relaxation and neuronal signaling. Inositol triphosphate is crucial in the signaling cascade initiated by phospholipase C, which releases calcium from the endoplasmic reticulum, influencing many cellular processes. In contrast, diphosphate does not fulfill the role of a second messenger in these signaling processes. While it may have functions within cellular metabolism, it does not participate directly in the signal transduction pathways recognized as involving second messengers.