Receptor Protein Mutation

Definition

A change or alteration in receptor proteins which can affect their function. This can lead to various diseases if these proteins fail to perform their normal functions.

Analogy

Think about a TV remote control as a receptor protein. If one button mutates or changes, you might not be able to change channels anymore. Similarly, if a receptor protein mutates, it may not be able to receive signals properly affecting its function.

Related terms

Signal Transduction Pathway: The process by which an external signal triggers a series of molecular events inside a cell leading to a response.

Ligand: Any molecule that binds specifically to a receptor site of another molecule.

Genetic Mutation: Permanent alteration in DNA sequence that makes up gene.