Agonist

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Agonist

Agonist (/əˈɡɒnɪst/; from the Greek αγωνιστής, agonistēs, 'combatant, champion') is a term used in various fields of medicine and biology. It refers to a substance that initiates a physiological response when combined with a receptor.

Etymology

The term "agonist" comes from the Greek word αγωνιστής (agonistēs), which means 'combatant' or 'champion'. It was first used in the context of medicine and biology in the 20th century.

In Pharmacology

In pharmacology, an agonist is a drug or naturally occurring substance that can interact with a receptor on a cell to produce a biological response. Agonists can be classified into two main types: full agonists, which can activate the receptor and cause a full physiological response, and partial agonists, which can only partially activate the receptor.

In Physiology

In physiology, an agonist is a muscle that causes movement by contracting. In this context, the term is often used in contrast with antagonist, which refers to a muscle that can oppose the movement caused by an agonist.

Related Terms

  • Antagonist: A substance that interferes with or inhibits the physiological action of another.
  • Receptor: A region of tissue, or a molecule in a cell membrane, which responds specifically to a particular neurotransmitter, hormone, antigen, or other substance.
  • Pharmacology: The branch of medicine concerned with the uses, effects, and modes of action of drugs.
  • Physiology: The branch of biology that deals with the normal functions of living organisms and their parts.

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