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Chemical Messenger Specificity

Meaning

Chemical Messenger Specificity refers to the precise targeting mechanism by which hormones, neurotransmitters, or other signaling molecules interact exclusively with their intended cellular targets. This selectivity is predominantly determined by the presence of highly complementary receptor structures on the target cell surface or within the cytoplasm. Maintaining high specificity is paramount to prevent crosstalk and maintain the ordered communication required for systemic homeostasis. Low specificity often results in off-target effects or systemic noise in the endocrine network.