opioid receptor (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Noun

Phonetic Transcription

/ˈoʊ.pi.ɔɪd ˈriːˌsɛp.tər/

Meaning and Usage

An opioid receptor is a type of protein found in the brain, spinal cord, and other parts of the body that binds to opioids (naturally occurring or synthetic substances) and mediates their pharmacological effects. There are three main types of opioid receptors: mu (μ), delta (δ), and kappa (κ), each playing different roles in pain control, mood regulation, and addictive behaviors. These receptors are crucial in medicine for managing pain but can lead to addiction and other risks if misused.

Frequency of Use: The term "opioid receptor" is commonly used in scientific, medical, and pharmacological contexts, particularly in research and discussions about pain management and substance use disorders. It appears more frequently in written contexts such as academic articles and healthcare literature.

Example Sentences

1. The activation of the opioid receptor helps in alleviating chronic pain.

2. La activación del receptor opioide ayuda a aliviar el dolor crónico.

3. Research into opioid receptors has provided insights into addiction mechanisms.

4. La investigación sobre los receptores opioides ha proporcionado conocimientos sobre los mecanismos de adicción.

5. Certain drugs work by blocking the opioid receptor to reduce the effects of opioids.

6. Ciertos medicamentos funcionan bloqueando el receptor opioide para reducir los efectos de los opioides.

Idiomatic Expressions

While "opioid receptor" itself is not part of common idiomatic expressions, it is often discussed in relation to expressions about addiction, pain, and drug use. Here are some relevant idiomatic expressions:

1. Caught in the web of addiction
2. Many individuals become caught in the web of addiction due to opioids binding to the opioid receptor.

3. Muchas personas se ven atrapadas en la red de la adicción debido a que los opioides se unen al receptor opioide.

4. Pain is a double-edged sword

5. For some, managing pain involves a double-edged sword when dealing with the opioid receptor and its effects.

6. Para algunos, manejar el dolor implica una espada de doble filo al tratar con el receptor opioide y sus efectos.

7. Walk the fine line

8. Doctors often have to walk the fine line between using opioids for pain relief and the risk of opioid receptor addiction.

9. Los médicos a menudo tienen que caminar la delgada línea entre usar opioides para el alivio del dolor y el riesgo de adicción al receptor opioide.

10. The grip of addiction

11. The grip of addiction can be traced back to the changes in the opioid receptor systems.
12. El control de la adicción puede rastrearse hasta los cambios en los sistemas de receptores opioides.

Etymology

The term opioid is derived from the word "opium," which comes from the Greek "opion" meaning "poppy juice." The word "receptor" finds its roots in the Latin "receptus," which means "to receive." The combination of these terms reflects the function of these receptors in receiving and responding to opioid molecules.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Opioid binding site - Pain receptor (in specific contexts)

Antonyms: - Opioid antagonist (e.g., naloxone, which blocks opioid receptors)

In summary, "opioid receptor" is a scientifically significant term rooted in both pharmacology and medical practice, impacting our understanding of pain and addiction. Its relevance continues as research evolves, opening up discussions about effective treatment and the importance of responsible opioid use.