receptor

(-tər)

noun

  1. a receiver (in various senses)
  2. Biochem. any of a group of substances, mainly proteins, found esp. on the surface of a cell, that combine with specific molecules, hormones, antibodies, drugs, viruses, etc.
  3. Physiol. a nerve ending or group of nerve endings specialized for the reception of stimuli; sense organ

Origin: ME receptour < OFr < L receptor < receptus: see receipt

See receptor in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun
  1. Physiology A specialized cell or group of nerve endings that responds to sensory stimuli.
  2. Biochemistry A molecular structure or site on the surface or interior of a cell that binds with substances such as hormones, antigens, drugs, or neurotransmitters.

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