Nearby words
alpha stock, alpha test, alpha wave, alpha-adrenergic, alpha-adrenergic blocking agent, alpha-adrenergic receptor, alpha-amino acid, alpha-aminosuccinic acid, alpha-beta brass, alpha-blocker, alpha-fetoprotein
Definition for alpha-adrenergic receptor (2 of 2)
alpha receptor
or al·pha-re·cep·tor
noun
a site on a cell that, upon interaction with epinephrine or norepinephrine, controls vasoconstriction, intestinal relaxation, pupil dilation, and other physiological processes.
Compare beta receptor.
Origin of alpha receptor
First recorded in 1960–65
Also called alpha-adrenergic receptor.
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019
Medicine definitions for alpha-adrenergic receptor
alpha-adrenergic receptor
n.
Any of various cell membrane receptors that can bind with norepinephrine and related substances that activate or block the actions of the cells containing such receptors; these cells initiate physiological responses such as vasoconstriction, pupil dilation, and contraction of pilomotor muscles.alpha-receptor
The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary
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