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Receptors, also known as receptorit in some languages, are proteins or other molecules that receive chemical signals from outside a cell or from within the cell itself. They are crucial components of cellular communication and play a significant role in various biological processes. Receptors are typically found embedded in the cell membrane or within the cytoplasm or nucleus of a cell.

The primary function of receptors is to bind to specific molecules, known as ligands, which can be neurotransmitters, hormones, or other signaling molecules. This binding triggers a conformational change in the receptor, which in turn activates a cellular response. The nature of the response depends on the type of receptor and the specific signaling pathway it activates.

There are several types of receptors, including ion channel-linked receptors, G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), and enzyme-linked receptors. Ion channel-linked receptors, when activated, open or close ion channels, allowing ions to flow in or out of the cell, which can lead to changes in the cell's electrical potential. GPCRs are the largest family of receptors and are involved in a wide range of physiological processes. When a ligand binds to a GPCR, it activates a G protein, which then triggers a cascade of intracellular events. Enzyme-linked receptors, when activated, catalyze the conversion of a substrate into a product, which can lead to changes in cell function.

Receptors are highly specific, meaning that each type of receptor typically binds to only one type of ligand. This specificity ensures that the cellular response is appropriate for the signal received. The study of receptors and their functions is a critical area of research in biology and medicine, as understanding these processes can lead to the development of new therapies for various diseases.