Drug Receptors

Drug receptors are specialized proteins located on cell surfaces or inside cells. They act like molecular locks, designed to interact with specific drugs or natural chemicals like hormones. When a drug binds to its receptor, it can activate or block that receptor’s function, ultimately affecting how cells behave. This interaction helps regulate processes such as mood, pain, and immune responses. Understanding drug receptors is essential for developing medications that can precisely target certain bodily functions while minimizing side effects.