Psychology / Unit 2 Psych 0165 short lesson, about 20 seconds
Receptor Specificity
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The idea
Each neurotransmitter binds only to receptor sites shaped to receive it, the way a key fits one lock.
In practice
Serotonin released into a synapse passes over dopamine receptors without effect and binds only serotonin receptors.
Where people slip
Specificity is why a drug can target one system. It is also why side effects appear wherever that receptor also occurs.
Your place on the trail
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Builds on
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