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What are receptors?

In short

A receptor is a kind of lock on or in a cell. When the right key fits, the cell passes on a signal. Many research peptides are studied because they fit a specific receptor, such as the GLP-1 receptor.

Lock and key

Cells talk to each other through signals. A receptor is the part that catches such a signal. Think of it as a lock: when the right key fits, the cell sets something in motion. In science the key is called a ligand. That can be a hormone, or a peptide.

Why this is central to peptide research

Many research peptides are studied precisely for their receptor. The name of the receptor often tells you straight away what the research is about. Incretin analogues, for example, are studied around the GLP-1 receptor, PT-141 around the melanocortin receptors, and growth hormone secretagogues around the ghrelin receptor.

Agonist and antagonist

A compound that activates a receptor is called an agonist. A compound that blocks the receptor is called an antagonist. In our source library and on the compound pages you can see, for each compound, which receptor is the target, so the common thread is easy to spot.

Did you know

The key that fits a receptor is called a ligand; that can be a hormone or a peptide.
An agonist activates a receptor, an antagonist blocks it.
The receptor name often reveals the research area: GLP-1 receptor for metabolic work, melanocortin for PT-141.

Frequently asked questions

What is a receptor?

A part on or in a cell that catches a signal, like a lock. When the right key (ligand) fits, the cell passes on a signal.

What is the difference between an agonist and an antagonist?

An agonist activates the receptor, an antagonist blocks it. Many research peptides are studied as an agonist of a specific receptor.

Sources

For laboratory and research use only. Not for human or animal consumption, diagnostics or therapeutic use.