noun

receptor

rih-SEP-ter/rɪˈseptər/

A structure that receives and responds to an incoming stimulus.

The receptor binds the matching molecule and activates a signal inside the cell.

A close-up cutaway of a cell membrane shows a receptor binding one specifically fitting signaling molecule and activating a small intracellular relay directly beneath it.

Etymology

reLatinback

+ceptLatintake

+orLatinone that performs an action

The pieces yield a receiver or taker-in, though “back” has an obscure force in the underlying Latin verb. In biology, the receiver is a cellular structure that detects and responds to a stimulus.

In context

OtterBioTutor3:22

the stimulus is detected by the receptor cell how it detects the stimulus I'll explain that later but something happens within the receptor cell where it will generate the action potential in the sensory neuron

15-14 How do Receptors Generate an Action Potential (Cambridge AS A Level Biology, 9700)

More examples

Light activates receptors in the retina.
This drug blocks a receptor on the cell's surface.
The hormone binds to its receptor and triggers a response.

Forms

receptor · receptors

Similar words

sensor: Usually a device that detects or measures physical changes.
receiver: Emphasizes receiving signals rather than responding to biological stimuli.