NEURORECEPTOR
Definition
Neuroreceptors are specialized proteins located on the surface of neurons and glial cells. They are responsible for sensing the presence of neurotransmitters and relaying signals to the cell. Neuroreceptors are fundamental to the functioning of the nervous system, as they are involved in the transmission of electrical signals between cells.
History
Neuroreceptors were first identified in the early 1900s by German researchers Heinrich von Stein and Otto Loewi. At the time, they were studying the effects of acetylcholine on heart muscles. Through their experiments, they discovered that acetylcholine was responsible for the transmission of signals between nerve cells. This led to the discovery of neurotransmitters and the role of neuroreceptors in transmitting signals.
Characteristics
Neuroreceptors are made up of two parts: an extracellular domain and an intracellular domain. The extracellular domain is composed of proteins that bind to specific neurotransmitters, while the intracellular domain is composed of proteins that activate the cell in response to the neurotransmitter. Neuroreceptors are also classified based on the type of neurotransmitter they bind to. Examples of different types of neuroreceptors include acetylcholine receptors, dopamine receptors, and serotonin receptors.
Neuroreceptors can also vary in their sensitivity to neurotransmitters. Some neuroreceptors are more sensitive than others, meaning they can detect the presence of neurotransmitters at lower concentrations. This is important for the proper functioning of the nervous system, as it ensures that neurons can respond quickly to changes in their environment.
References
Bouvier, M., & Trinquet, E. (2008). Molecular mechanisms of neurotransmitter receptor function. Physiological Reviews, 88(2), 577-621.
Dudai, Y., & Soreq, H. (2006). Molecular basis of neurotransmitter receptor regulation. Annual Review of Neuroscience, 29, 463-489.
Gendelman, H. E., & Welch, M. (2013). The molecular biology of neuroreceptors. Cold Spring Harbor Perspectives in Medicine, 3(4), 1-18.
Kandel, E. R., & Schwartz, J. H. (1985). Molecular biology of learning: Modulation of transmitter release. Science, 228(4703), 551-555.
Sine, S. M., Koob, G. F., & Bloom, F. E. (1989). Neurochemical and behavioral studies of neuroreceptors. Annual Review of Neuroscience, 12, 325-358.