A physiological structure or process that strictly controls the passage of substances, often hormones or nutrients, into a cell, tissue, or organ system. This control is vital for maintaining cellular homeostasis and preventing unregulated signaling which could lead to dysfunction. It acts as a critical checkpoint in the body’s communication network, ensuring only appropriate signals are transmitted.
Origin
The term is a metaphorical construct derived from the concept of a literal gatekeeper, combining “biological” (relating to living organisms) and “gatekeeper” (one who controls access). It is frequently used in clinical and physiological contexts to describe critical barrier functions, such as the blood-brain barrier or specific cell membrane receptors.
Mechanism
The mechanism typically involves specialized cell membranes, transport proteins, or receptor systems that selectively bind to and facilitate the movement of specific molecules. For hormones, this often includes cell surface receptors or nuclear receptors that only respond to the correct ligand. The efficiency of this gatekeeping directly impacts the bioavailability and regulatory power of endocrine signals, governing the cellular response.
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