What is the Difference Between Agonist and Antagonist?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚The main difference between agonists and antagonists lies in their interaction with receptors and the responses they produce:
- Agonist: An agonist is a molecule that binds to and activates a target, typically a metabotropic or ionotropic receptor, mimicking the actions of a neurotransmitter or hormone and producing a similar response. For example, opioid agonists like morphine and heroin bind to opioid receptors and produce responses such as "liking," analgesia, and respiratory depression.
- Antagonist: An antagonist is a molecule that binds to a target (e.g., a receptor) and prevents other molecules, such as agonists, from binding, without activating the receptor. Antagonists do not produce a response on their own but block or oppose the natural action or response of a receptor. For example, naltrexone is an opioid receptor antagonist that binds to opioid receptors without activating them, preventing the receptors from being activated by agonists like heroin or morphine.
In summary:
- Agonists mimic the actions of neurotransmitters or hormones and produce a response when they bind to receptors.
- Antagonists bind to receptors without activating them, preventing other molecules from binding and blocking the receptor's natural response.
On this pageWhat is the Difference Between Agonist and Antagonist? Comparative Table: Agonist vs Antagonist
Comparative Table: Agonist vs Antagonist
Here is a table that compares the differences between agonists and antagonists:
Property | Agonist | Antagonist |
---|---|---|
Interaction | Mimics or enhances | Blocks or inhibits |
Activation | Yes | No |
Result | Increased activity | Decreased activity |
Agonists are substances that activate receptors to produce a biological response, mimicking or enhancing the action of a natural neurotransmitter or hormone. Antagonists, on the other hand, bind to receptors but do not activate them, blocking the action of the natural neurotransmitter or hormone. In summary, agonists create a certain action, while antagonists oppose a certain action.
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