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alpha receptor

American  
Or alpha-receptor

noun

  1. a site on a cell that, upon interaction with epinephrine or norepinephrine, controls vasoconstriction, intestinal relaxation, pupil dilation, and other physiological processes.


Etymology

Origin of alpha receptor

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Other drugs known as fibrates, which are used to lower triglycerides and raise good cholesterol, activate the alpha receptor.

From New York Times

In the presence of estrogen, the ER alpha receptor was activated, resulting in a bright glow, but not in the presence of Dif-1.

From Scientific American