Cell Surface Receptor

Cell surface receptors, also known as membrane receptors or transmembrane receptors, are specialized integral membrane proteins embedded in the plasma membrane of cells. Their primary function is to recognize and bind extracellular molecules (ligands) such as hormones, neurotransmitters, cytokines, growth factors, cell adhesion molecules, or nutrients. Upon ligand binding, these receptors initiate signal transduction pathways that result in specific cellular responses.

Other names

Membrane receptorTransmembrane receptor

Ligand binding induces conformational change, activating downstream signaling pathways such as opening ion channels, activating enzymes (kinases), or coupling with G-proteins.