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Glite Dictionary
alpha-adrenoceptor

alpha-adrenoceptor

9.3
Receptor on certain cells that reacts to adrenaline and narrows blood vessels
  • noun
  • /ˈælfə əˈdrɛnəˌsɛptər/
  • Specialized
translation icon : alfa-adrenoceptor
  • Stimulation of the alpha-adrenoceptor leads to constriction of blood vessels in peripheral tissues.

Examples

  • Certain medications work by blocking the alpha-adrenoceptor to lower blood pressure.

  • Researchers are studying how the alpha-adrenoceptor influences the contraction of smooth muscle cells.

  • The alpha-adrenoceptor plays a crucial role in blood pressure regulation.

  • Researchers are studying alpha-adrenoceptors for their effects on heart function.

  • Certain medications work by blocking the alpha-adrenoceptor to lower blood pressure.

  • Researchers are studying how the alpha-adrenoceptor influences the contraction of smooth muscle cells.

  • Stimulation of the alpha-adrenoceptor leads to constriction of blood vessels in peripheral tissues.

Synonyms

alpha-adrenergic receptor
vsalpha-adrenoceptor
  • Specialized
7.4

A protein on nerve and blood vessel cells that reacts to body chemicals to make vessels narrow and muscles contract

is broader and adds intestinal muscle relaxation
alpha receptor
vsalpha-adrenoceptor
  • Specialized
7.8

A part on nerve cells that makes blood vessels and muscles in organs tighten

is more specific by also causing relaxation of intestinal muscles

Surface Forms

alpha-adrenoceptor singular
alpha-adrenoceptors plural

Morphology

alpha-adrenoceptor = adrenoceptor (semi-transparent) = alpha + adreno + receptor

The prefix 'alpha' clearly marks a subtype, but 'adrenoceptor' is a technical term built from the combining form 'adreno-' and 'receptor', so full understanding requires domain knowledge.

Etymology

Alpha-adrenoceptor breaks into alpha- meaning 'first' or 'primary', adreno- from adrenaline, the body's 'fight-or-flight' chemical, and -receptor meaning 'a receiver'. So an alpha-adrenoceptor is a 'first' or special kind of 'receiver' for adrenaline-like signals, which is why it makes blood vessels tighten and smooth muscles contract.