Autocrine signaling is a form of cell communication where a cell produces signals, such as hormones or cytokines, that bind to receptors on its own surface. This process allows the cell to regulate its own functions, such as growth, differentiation, and immune responses. It plays a crucial role in various biological processes, including development and tissue repair. In autocrine signaling, the signaling molecules are released into the surrounding environment, but they primarily affect the same cell that secreted them. This type of signaling is important in many contexts, including cancer progression, where tumor cells may use autocrine signals to promote their own survival and proliferation.