alpha adrenergic receptor

alpha-adrenergic receptor

noun Physiology.
Dictionary.com Unabridged

alpha receptor

noun
a site on a cell that, upon interaction with epinephrine or norepinephrine, controls vasoconstriction, intestinal relaxation, pupil dilation, and other physiological processes.
Also, al·pha-re·cep·tor.
Also called alpha-adrenergic receptor.
Compare beta receptor.


Origin:
1960–65

Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2013.
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a chattering or flighty, light-headed person.
American Heritage
Medical Dictionary

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. Also called alpha-receptor.

The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary
Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company.
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