Receptors: meaning, definitions and examples

Used mainly in biological or physiological contexts to refer to cells or proteins that receive and respond to stimuli.

• Receptors in the skin can detect changes in temperature.
• Neurotransmitters bind to receptors in the brain.

Used in various contexts, particularly in technology and engineering, to refer to devices that detect and respond to physical inputs from the environment.

• Motion sensors automatically turn on the lights when someone enters the room.
• Temperature sensors are important in climate control systems.

Commonly used in scientific and technological contexts to refer to devices or instruments that sense and measure physical properties or substances.

• Smoke detectors are crucial for home safety.
• A metal detector can find hidden objects underground.

Often used in telecommunications and electronics to refer to devices that receive signals or data.

• The radio receiver picked up the broadcast clearly.
• Satellite TV receivers decode the signal for the television.

Used in biological and medical contexts to refer to proteins on the surface of a cell that respond to specific molecules.

• Drugs often target specific receptors to treat diseases.
• Our sense of smell relies on olfactory receptors.

Commonly used in biochemistry and molecular biology to refer to specific regions on proteins or DNA where molecules, like substrates or ligands, can bind.

• Enzymes have binding sites where substrates attach to undergo a chemical reaction.
• The antibodies recognize and bind to specific binding sites on the antigen.

Used to describe locations or areas where two things are joined or fastened, often in biological, mechanical, or structural contexts.

• The virus attaches to the host cell through specific attachment sites.
• Bolts are placed at the attachment sites to secure the components.

Used generally to describe locations or moments where there is an interaction between two or more elements or entities, applicable in various fields such as biology, technology, and social sciences.

• Mobile apps often have multiple points of interaction to enhance user engagement.
• At the molecular level, points of interaction determine how proteins function.