Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

muscarinic

Adjective
/ˌmʌs.kəˈrɪn.ɪk/
Definition
Relating to a type of acetylcholine receptor that is stimulated by muscarine, a substance derived from certain mushrooms.
Examples
  • The muscarinic receptors in the heart help regulate the slowing of heart rate.
  • Muscarinic antagonists are often used to treat certain types of poisoning.
Meaning
Muscarinic refers to the specific subclass of acetylcholine receptors that play important roles in the parasympathetic nervous system, often affecting functions such as heart rate and glandular secretions.
Synonyms
  • Acetylcholine receptor
  • Cholinergic receptor