The process by which cells communicate through chemical signals is referred to as cell signaling. This complex mechanism allows cells to transmit information about their environment or internal state to other cells, influencing various functions such as growth, metabolism, and immune responses. Types of cell signaling include autocrine (signals act on the same cell), paracrine (signals affect nearby cells), and endocrine (signals carried through the bloodstream). Understanding cell signaling is essential for insights into cellular functions and disease mechanisms.