receptor
UK: rɪˈsɛptə | US: rɪˈsɛptɚ
n. a specialized cell or group of cells that detect and respond to specific stimuli (e.g., light, chemicals).
n. (Biochemistry) a protein molecule that binds to specific substances (e.g., hormones, neurotransmitters) to trigger a cellular response.
The word "receptor" traces back to Latin receptus (past participle of recipere, "to take back or receive"), combining re- (back) + capere (to take). The suffix -or denotes an agent or tool, forming a noun meaning "a thing that receives." The term evolved in scientific contexts to describe biological structures that "receive" signals or stimuli, reflecting its Latin roots in the concept of active reception.
The olfactory receptor cells detect smells and send signals to the brain.
Insulin receptors on cell surfaces help regulate glucose absorption.
Scientists studied the receptor's binding mechanism to develop new drugs.
Light receptors in the retina enable vision in low-light conditions.
The virus enters host cells by attaching to specific membrane receptors.