What is the Origin of Receptor Impairment?

A core concept in cellular biology, endocrinology, and pharmacology, describing a common mechanism of signal transduction failure. The term is clinically relevant in conditions like insulin resistance, where receptor function is significantly compromised. It highlights that the cellular response is determined by the receptor, not just the ligand concentration.

What is the Mechanism of Receptor Impairment?

Impairment can occur through several pathways, including chronic overstimulation leading to receptor down-regulation and internalization, genetic mutations affecting receptor structure, or post-translational modifications like phosphorylation that block binding sites. The resulting signal deficit leads to systemic dysfunction. This failure means the circulating hormone cannot elicit the appropriate cellular response, necessitating higher hormone levels to achieve a biological effect.

Receptor Impairment ∞ Area

Receptor Impairment

Meaning

Receptor Impairment is a pathological state characterized by a reduction in the number, sensitivity, or functional capacity of cell surface or intracellular receptors responsible for binding to specific hormones or neurotransmitters. This impairment effectively diminishes the target cell’s ability to receive and transduce the intended biological signal. Clinically, this leads to a state of functional hormone deficiency, even if circulating hormone levels are adequate.