CYTOKINE RECEPTOR Meaning and
Definition
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A cytokine receptor refers to a protein molecule located on the surface of cells that specifically binds to cytokines, which are small signaling molecules involved in cell signaling and immune responses. Cytokines are crucial for regulating cellular activities such as cell growth, differentiation, and immune responses.
Cytokine receptors are classified into different families based on their structure and function. The most common type of cytokine receptor is the transmembrane receptor, which spans the cell membrane and consists of an extracellular ligand-binding domain and an intracellular signaling domain. Upon binding to their respective cytokines, these receptors undergo conformational changes that activate downstream signaling pathways, allowing the cells to respond accordingly.
Cytokine receptors are highly specific in their binding, meaning a specific cytokine typically binds to only one type of receptor. This specificity ensures that cytokines can exert their effects on target cells and tissues with precision. By binding to their receptors, cytokines can trigger a cascade of intracellular events, such as the activation of transcription factors and the release of secondary mediators, leading to a variety of cellular responses.
Abnormalities in cytokine receptors can have significant effects on immune responses and cellular functioning. Defects or mutations in these receptors can lead to various diseases and conditions, including autoimmune disorders, immunodeficiencies, and cancers. Consequently, targeting cytokine receptors has emerged as a therapeutic strategy for manipulating immune responses and treating certain diseases.
Common Misspellings for CYTOKINE RECEPTOR
- xytokine receptor
- vytokine receptor
- fytokine receptor
- dytokine receptor
- cttokine receptor
- cgtokine receptor
- chtokine receptor
- cutokine receptor
- c7tokine receptor
- c6tokine receptor
- cyrokine receptor
- cyfokine receptor
- cygokine receptor
- cyyokine receptor
- cy6okine receptor
- cy5okine receptor
- cytikine receptor
- cytkkine receptor
- cytlkine receptor
- cytpkine receptor
Etymology of CYTOKINE RECEPTOR
The word "cytokine" originates from the Greek words "cyto" meaning "cell" and "kinein" meaning "to move". "Cytokines" are a category of small proteins that are secreted by cells and play a crucial role in cell signaling and communication.
The term "receptor" comes from the Latin word "receptus", which means "a recipient" or "to receive". In biology, a receptor refers to a molecule, often found on the cell surface, that receives signals from other molecules (such as hormones, neurotransmitters, or cytokines) and initiates a biochemical response within the cell.
Therefore, the term "cytokine receptor" is a combination of these two words. It refers to the molecules found on the surface of cells that are capable of binding to specific cytokines and transmitting their signals into the cell, triggering various cellular responses.
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