receptor

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receptor (ri-sep-ter) n.
1. a cell or group of cells specialized to detect changes in the environment and trigger impulses in the sensory nervous system. All sensory nerve endings act as receptors. See exteroceptor, interoceptor, proprioceptor.

2. a specialized area of cell membrane that can bind with a specific hormone (e.g. oestrogen r.), neurotransmitter (e.g. adrenergic r.), drug, or other chemical, thereby initiating a change within the cell.

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