Receptor
/rɪˈsɛptər/
Definitions
2 meaningsA specialized structure, such as a sensory nerve ending or a protein on the surface of a cell, that responds to a specific type of stimulus or signal.
/rɪˈsɛptər/
A cell or protein that binds to a specific molecule and triggers a cellular response.
The drug binds to the specific receptor on the cell.
💡 Simply: Imagine a special mailbox on a cell. When a specific 'letter' (a molecule) arrives, it fits perfectly into the mailbox (receptor) and tells the cell what to do. Like how your cell phone receives a text!
👶 For kids: A receptor is like a special door on a cell that waits for a message to come and then tells the cell what to do!
More Examples
Certain receptors are responsible for detecting pain.
Researchers are studying the role of various receptors in disease.
How It's Used
"Hormone receptors on cell surfaces bind with specific hormones to initiate a cellular response."
"Drugs often target specific receptors to exert their therapeutic effects."
"Neurotransmitters bind to receptors in the postsynaptic neuron, transmitting a signal."
A device or component that receives and processes a signal, such as a radio receiver.
/rɪˈsɛptər/
A device that receives signals, such as radio signals.
The radio receptor picked up the distant signal.
💡 Simply: It’s like the antenna of your TV or the receiver of your radio. It 'listens' for signals and converts them into sound or images. It is the part that 'receives' the message, so you can see or hear it.
👶 For kids: A receptor is like a special listening device that can hear radio waves and turn them into music!
More Examples
The receptor converts the signal into audio.
The satellite uses a receptor to receive information from earth.
How It's Used
"A radio receptor converts radio waves into sound."
"The antenna is connected to the receptor to capture signals."
From Latin *receptor*, from *recipere* ('to receive'), from *re-* ('back, again') + *capere* ('to take'). The term was initially used in biology and physiology.
The term 'receptor' was established in the late 19th and early 20th centuries with advancements in physiology, emphasizing signal reception in biological systems.
Memory tip
Think of a receptionist who receives and directs information. A receptor similarly receives a signal and initiates a response.