NEURORECEPTOR Meaning and
Definition
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A neuroreceptor refers to a specialized protein molecule that is present on the surface of a neuron or other types of cells within the nervous system. These receptor proteins are responsible for recognizing and binding to specific signaling molecules, such as neurotransmitters or hormones, which play a crucial role in transmitting electrical and chemical signals within the brain and other parts of the nervous system.
Neuroreceptors act as gatekeepers by regulating the flow of information between neurons. When a neurotransmitter securely attaches or binds to its corresponding receptor, it triggers a series of chemical changes within the neuron, leading to the transmission of signals across the synapse, the junction between two neurons. The binding of neurotransmitters to neuroreceptors can either excite or inhibit the receiving neuron, thus influencing the overall activity and functioning of the nervous system.
There are various types of neuroreceptors, each having unique characteristics and functions. Some examples include ionotropic receptors, which directly regulate the movement of ions across the neuron's membrane, and metabotropic receptors, which indirectly influence various cellular processes through intracellular signaling pathways. Neuroreceptors are crucial for various physiological processes, including sensory perception, motor control, mood regulation, and cognitive functions.
The study of neuroreceptors is essential in understanding the mechanisms underlying various neurological disorders and the development of drugs that modulate their activity. By selectively targeting and affecting neuroreceptors, scientists can manipulate the communication between neurons, potentially providing therapeutic interventions for a wide range of neurological conditions.
Common Misspellings for NEURORECEPTOR
- beuroreceptor
- meuroreceptor
- jeuroreceptor
- heuroreceptor
- nwuroreceptor
- nsuroreceptor
- nduroreceptor
- nruroreceptor
- n4uroreceptor
- n3uroreceptor
- neyroreceptor
- nehroreceptor
- nejroreceptor
- neiroreceptor
- ne8roreceptor
- ne7roreceptor
- neueoreceptor
- neudoreceptor
- neuforeceptor
- neutoreceptor
Etymology of NEURORECEPTOR
The word "neuroreceptor" is a combination of the Greek root words "neuron" and "receptor".
The term "neuron" comes from the Greek word "neuron", meaning "nerve" or "sinew". It was used to refer to the basic unit or building block of the nervous system.
The term "receptor" is derived from the Latin word "receptus", meaning "received" or "taken in". It originally referred to a specialized organ or area of the body that detects and responds to stimuli. Over time, "receptor" has become a general term for a molecular structure, often found on the surface of cells, which recognizes specific molecules and initiates a physiological response.
When the two terms are combined, "neuroreceptor" refers to a receptor that is specifically found in nerve cells or neurons.
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