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Receptor Sensitivity Metrics

Meaning

Receptor Sensitivity Metrics quantify the responsiveness of target cells to circulating ligands, such as hormones or neurotransmitters, reflecting the functional status of their specific cellular receptors. High sensitivity implies that lower ligand concentrations elicit a robust downstream response, indicating efficient signaling fidelity. Conversely, low sensitivity, often termed resistance, necessitates higher ligand concentrations to achieve the same biological effect, a common feature in endocrine dysfunction. These metrics are vital for assessing the efficacy of endogenous signaling independent of total circulating hormone levels.