beta-adrenergic receptor
noun Biochemistry, Physiology.
Words nearby beta-adrenergic receptor
beta version,
beta wave,
beta waves,
beta-adrenergic,
beta-adrenergic blocking agent,
beta-adrenergic receptor,
beta-agonist,
beta-blocker,
beta-carotene,
beta-endorphin,
beta-fructofuranosidase
Definition for beta-adrenergic receptor (2 of 2)
beta receptor
or be·ta-re·cep·tor
noun Biochemistry, Physiology.
a site on a cell, as of the heart, that, upon interaction with epinephrine or norepinephrine, controls heartbeat and heart contractability, vasodilation, smooth muscle inhibition, and other physiological processes.
Also called
beta-adrenergic receptor.
Compare
alpha receptor.
Origin of beta receptor
First recorded in 1960–65
Medical definitions for beta-adrenergic receptor
beta-adrenergic receptor
n.
Any of various cell membrane receptors that can bind with epinephrine and related substances that activate or block the actions of cells containing such receptors. These cells initiate physiological responses such as increasing the rate and force of contraction of the heart as well as relaxing bronchial and vascular smooth muscle.
beta-receptor