ABSTRACT
The definition of a RECEPTOR* in terms of a receptive site, an executive site and a coupling mechanism, is followed by a general consideration of four binding criteria, which include hormone specificity, tissue specificity, high affinity and saturation, essential for distinguishing between specific and nonspecific binding. Experimental approaches are proposed for choosing an experimental system (either organized or soluble) and detecting the presence of protein binding sites.
Techniques are then presented for evaluating the specific protein binding sites (receptors) in terms of the four criteria. This is followed by a brief consideration of how receptors may be located in cells and characterized when extracted.
Finally various examples of oestrogen, androgen, progestagen, glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid binding to their respective target tissues are presented, to illustrate how researchers have identified specific corticoid and mineralocorticoid binding in their respective target tissue receptors.
