Multiple paracrine pathways

Multiple paracrine pathways refer to the complex network of local cell-to-cell communication where cells secrete signaling molecules into the immediate extracellular environment to influence the behavior of neighboring cells (Source: Nature Education, 2014). This term does not represent a single molecular target, such as a specific receptor or enzyme, but rather a collective physiological process involving various ligands like cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors. In therapeutic contexts, particularly in regenerative medicine and oncology, the term is frequently used to describe the mechanism by which stem cells or tumor cells modulate their microenvironment to promote tissue repair or disease progression (Source: PubMed, PMID: 30631533). Because it encompasses a wide array of distinct molecular interactions rather than a discrete protein, it is considered a physiological system or mechanism of action rather than a specific druggable target. Consequently, drug development focusing on these pathways usually involves multi-component biologics or cell-based therapies designed to mimic or inhibit the broad secretome of a cell (Source: NIH, StatPearls, 2023).

Other names

Paracrine signalingLocal cell-to-cell signalingSecretome-mediated signalingParacrine factors

Modulation of the cellular microenvironment through the secretion of diverse signaling molecules (ligands) that bind to receptors on adjacent cells to elicit biological responses.