What happens to cAMP when its signaling is no longer needed?

cAMP, or cyclic adenosine monophosphate, is an important second messenger in various signaling pathways, particularly in response to hormones and other signaling molecules. When cellular signaling events mediated by cAMP are no longer required, the concentration of cAMP must decrease to terminate the signal. This is accomplished through the action of an enzyme called phosphodiesterase, which hydrolyzes cAMP into AMP (adenosine monophosphate).

The degradation of cAMP ensures that the signal is turned off effectively, allowing cells to return to their basal state and preventing prolonged or inappropriate responses. This regulation is critical for maintaining cellular homeostasis and ensuring that signaling pathways are only active when necessary. Thus, the correct answer is that cAMP is degraded when its signaling is no longer needed.