RECEPTOR CELL Meaning and
Definition
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A receptor cell refers to a specialized type of cell that is responsible for detecting and conveying specific stimuli from the external or internal environment to the nervous system. These cells are commonly found in sensory organs throughout the body, such as the eyes, ears, nose, tongue, and skin. They are vital for initiating the process of sensation and perception.
Receptor cells possess unique structural and functional adaptations that allow them to respond to specific types of stimuli. For instance, in the retina of the eye, photoreceptor cells called rods and cones are sensitive to light and enable vision. In the auditory system, hair cells in the cochlea detect sound vibrations, whereas in the olfactory system, chemoreceptor cells in the nose are responsible for sensing odors. Mechanoreceptor cells in the skin detect pressure, touch, and vibration, while thermoreceptor cells respond to temperature changes.
When stimulated by a specific type of energy or chemical, receptor cells convert the detected stimulus into electrical signals. These electrical signals are then transmitted through the nervous system to the brain, where they are processed and interpreted to create a perception of the detected stimulus. In this way, receptor cells play a crucial role in the transduction of sensory information, enabling the body to perceive, respond, and adapt to its environment.
Overall, receptor cells act as gatekeepers of the sensory input, converting external stimuli into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain, facilitating the complex process of sensation and perception.
Common Misspellings for RECEPTOR CELL
- eeceptor cell
- deceptor cell
- feceptor cell
- teceptor cell
- 5eceptor cell
- 4eceptor cell
- rwceptor cell
- rsceptor cell
- rdceptor cell
- rrceptor cell
- r4ceptor cell
- r3ceptor cell
- rexeptor cell
- reveptor cell
- refeptor cell
- redeptor cell
- recwptor cell
- recsptor cell
- recdptor cell
- recrptor cell
Etymology of RECEPTOR CELL
The word "receptor" is derived from the Latin word "receptus", which means "received" or "to receive". The word "cell" comes from the Latin word "cella", meaning "small room" or "chamber". Therefore, the term "receptor cell" refers to a specialized cell that is capable of receiving or detecting specific signals or stimuli.
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