receptor
/rɪˈsɛptər/
noun
- A cell or group of cells in the body that receives signals from the environment or from other parts of the body, such as light, sound, touch, or chemicals.
- Olfactory receptors in the nose detect different smells.
- The retina contains light receptors that help us see.
- Pain receptors in the skin send signals to the brain when you touch something hot.
- A structure on a cell that binds with specific substances (like hormones or drugs) to trigger a response.
- Insulin binds to receptors on muscle cells to allow sugar to enter.
- Scientists are studying how virus particles attach to cell receptors.
- Some medications work by blocking certain receptors in the brain.