alpha-adrenergic receptor

alpha-adrenergic receptor definition - medical

alpha-adrenergic receptor

noun
Any of various cell membrane receptors that can bind with norepinephrine and related substances that activate or block the actions of the cells containing such receptors; these cells initiate physiological responses such as vasoconstriction, pupil dilation, and contraction of pilomotor muscles. Also called alpha-receptor.

The American Heritage® Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

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