receptors
n. countablen. special parts of your body or cells that receive signals. They catch things like light, heat, or chemicals and tell your brain or body how to react.
n. specialised proteins or nerve endings that respond to specific sensory stimuli or chemical signals. They initiate a physiological response upon binding with a ligand or detecting physical changes.
The receptors in your eyes help you see different colours.
Scientists are studying how certain drugs bind to pain receptors in the brain to block uncomfortable sensations.
The effectiveness of the new medication depends on its ability to target specific cellular receptors without interfering with the surrounding healthy tissue or causing systemic side effects.
Usually used in the plural when referring to biological systems or sensory organs.