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Cellular Receptor Agonism

Meaning

Cellular Receptor Agonism is a fundamental pharmacodynamic concept describing the binding of a specific substance, known as an agonist, to a cellular receptor protein, which subsequently initiates a biological response that functionally mimics the action of the body’s natural endogenous ligand. This process represents the activation of the receptor, resulting in a precise conformational change that triggers an intracellular signaling cascade. Clinically, this mechanism is the basis for many therapeutic drugs designed to stimulate or enhance a particular physiological effect in a targeted manner.