Ion channel-linked receptors

Ion channel-linked receptors will transmitter-gated ion channels or ionotrophic receptors that   are included in the rapid synaptic signaling among electrically excitable cells. Now binding of the ligand causes a conformational modifies in the protein like in which a specific ion channel is opened shown in the figure. This allows a certain ion to fiow by which subsequently alters the electric potential across the membrane. For instance, at the nerve–muscle junction the neurotransmitter acetylcholine binds to specific receptors which permitts Na+ ions to flow into, and K ions out of, the goal cell.

                                      Figure:  Signal transduction through an ion channel-linked receptor.