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Receptor Site Antagonism

Meaning

Receptor Site Antagonism is a specific mechanism in endocrinology and pharmacology where an exogenous or endogenous molecule binds to a cellular hormone or neurotransmitter receptor but fails to activate it, thereby blocking the binding and action of the natural, stimulating ligand. This clinical phenomenon effectively prevents the intended hormonal signal from being transmitted into the cell. This antagonism is a common pathway for endocrine disruption and is targeted by many pharmaceutical agents. It is a key element of systemic signaling noise.