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Receptor Proteins

Meaning

Receptor proteins are specialized macromolecules, typically high-molecular-weight proteins, that are either embedded within the cellular plasma membrane or located intracellularly within the cytoplasm or nucleus. These proteins possess a specific binding site that recognizes and binds to cognate signaling molecules such as hormones, neurotransmitters, or growth factors. This specific binding event initiates a precise biochemical response within the cell, acting as the crucial initial step in cellular communication and signal transduction. These proteins are fundamental to endocrinology, as they determine a target cell’s sensitivity and ultimate response to circulating hormonal signals.