Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
A receptor protein is a molecule found on the surface of cells that binds to specific substances, triggering a specific response in the cell.
Related terms
G Protein-Coupled Receptors: These are a type of receptor protein that activate G proteins when they bind to a substance, initiating an intracellular signaling cascade.
This is any molecule that binds specifically to a receptor site of another molecule. In our analogy, this would be the guest with the right ID.
Transmembrane Protein: This is any protein that spans the entire biological membrane. Receptor proteins are often transmembrane proteins as they need to interact with both inside and outside environments.