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Constitutively Active Receptor

Meaning

A Constitutively Active Receptor is a cellular receptor protein that remains perpetually ‘on’ and capable of initiating downstream signaling, even in the complete absence of its normal activating ligand, such as a hormone. This state of continuous activity is typically the result of a genetic mutation within the receptor’s coding sequence, leading to a conformational change that mimics the ligand-bound state. The resulting uncontrolled signaling can drive aberrant cellular processes, often contributing to endocrine disorders or the uncontrolled proliferation seen in certain cancers. Understanding this phenomenon is vital for developing targeted therapies that can block the receptor’s permanent activation signal.