Receptor-Mediated Endocytosis in AP Biology

Definition

Receptor-mediated endocytosis is a specific form of endocytosis involving receptor proteins on the cell surface that bind to specific substances and trigger their uptake into the cell in vesicles.

Related terms

Ligand:

A molecule that binds specifically to another molecule, often larger one. In this case, it would be what binds to our receptor protein on our cellular "door".

Vesicle:

Small structure within a cell consisting of fluid enclosed by a lipid bilayer. They are used for transporting materials within cells - think mini delivery trucks!

Clathrin: A protein that plays a major role in the formation of coated vesicles, which are used to transport molecules between different areas within the cell.