Abstract

Membrane receptors are special protein molecules in cell membranes to which changes in the function of cells are triggered, signal communication and various molecules outside the cell bind. Communication between cells takes place in three ways: direct physical contact from surface to surface, gap junction and chemical signaling between cells. Signals that do not cross the cell membrane bind to specific receptors in the membrane and direct cellular events. The identification of new receptors and providing important information, particularly on cell growth, differentiation and activity, has led to significant advances in cell typing and drug design. Membrane receptors are composed of integral glycoproteins ranging from 140 to 150kDa. A receptor molecule consists of three parts: the ligand, the hydrophobic region crossing the membrane, and the cytoplasm-facing region that provides signal transduction. In terms of structural properties, membrane receptors are divided into three groups as catalytic receptors, receptors containing ion channels and receptors containing intracellular messenger molecules. Using monoclonal antibody technology, mutant receptors can be detected by producing monoclonal antibodies to various parts of the receptor. Gene therapy is possible by identifying mutations in their genes to receptors.

Keywords: Membrane receptors; Structure; Messenger systemb