Neurotransmitter receptors are specialized proteins located on the surface of neurons that bind to neurotransmitters, which are chemical messengers in the brain. When a neurotransmitter attaches to its receptor, it triggers a response in the neuron, influencing various functions such as mood, memory, and movement. These receptors are crucial for communication between neurons and can be classified into two main types: ionotropic receptors, which open ion channels, and metabotropic receptors, which activate signaling pathways inside the cell. The interaction between neurotransmitters and their receptors plays a vital role in the overall functioning of the nervous system.