alpha receptor
A scientist points to a diagram of an alpha receptor on a nerve cell membrane.
Noun: 1. A type of adrenergic receptor: An alpha receptor is a specific protein located on the surface of certain cells, primarily those of the sympathetic nervous system. It binds to neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and epinephrine, mediating specific physiological responses such as blood vessel constriction (vasoconstriction).
The term "alpha receptor" is used in specialized contexts like physiology, pharmacology, and medicine to classify and discuss one of the main types of receptors that respond to adrenaline-like substances. - The medication works by selectively blocking the alpha receptor, which helps to lower blood pressure. - Researchers are studying the distribution of alpha receptors in different tissues.
- Alpha-adrenergic receptor: This is a more precise full name, often used interchangeably with "alpha receptor."
- The drug is an alpha-adrenergic receptor antagonist.
- α-receptor: A common symbolic abbreviation using the Greek letter alpha.
- Alpha-1 receptor (α₁) / Alpha-2 receptor (α₂): The two primary subtypes of alpha receptors, which have different locations and functions in the body.
- Alpha-1 receptors are often found on vascular smooth muscle, causing constriction.
- Adrenoceptor, alpha-adrenoceptor: More formal synonyms used in scientific literature.
- Alpha blockade / Alpha antagonism: The action of a drug that blocks alpha receptors.
- The side effects are due to alpha blockade.
- Alpha agonist: A substance that stimulates alpha receptors.
- Phenylephrine is an alpha agonist used as a decongestant.
A scientist points to a diagram of an alpha receptor on a nerve cell membrane.
- receptors postulated to exist on nerve cell membranes of the sympathetic nervous system in order to explain the specificity of certain agents that affect only some sympathetic activities (such as vasoconstriction and relaxation of intestinal muscles and contraction of smooth muscles)