Membrane receptor it is a protein in cell membranes to which specific substances bind. These substances, generically called ligands, can be growth factors, hormones, neurotransmitters, drugs, among others.
Each ligand binds to its specific receptor, thanks to the structural complementarity between the two molecules, as in a lock and key system. Once the ligand binds to its cell membrane receptor, a series of chemical reactions is triggered inside the cell, culminating in the expression of genes that will activate specific functions, depending on the ligand.
In oncology, the binding of certain membrane receptors with their respective ligands can lead to cell proliferation and angiogenesis, stimulating the development and progression of malignant neoplasms. Among these receptors is the HER-2 receptor.
