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Receptor Upregulation

Meaning

Receptor upregulation is a biological process where the number of specific receptors on a cell surface or within the cell interior increases, thereby enhancing the cell’s sensitivity to a particular hormone or neurotransmitter. This adaptive response is typically triggered by prolonged exposure to low concentrations of the signaling molecule. Clinically, this mechanism is often a therapeutic goal to improve the body’s responsiveness to endogenous hormones or prescribed pharmaceutical agents.