Cell communication is the process by which cells send and receive signals to coordinate their activities. This communication is essential for maintaining the functions of living organisms, allowing cells to respond to changes in their environment. Cells use various methods, such as chemical signals called hormones and neurotransmitters, to relay information to one another. When a cell receives a signal, it can trigger a response, such as growth, movement, or changes in metabolism. This interaction often involves receptors on the cell surface that detect the signals and initiate a cascade of events inside the cell. Effective cell communication is crucial for processes like immune responses and development.