target cell

/ˌtɑrgət sɛl/

Definitions of target cell

1. noun

   any cell that has a specific receptor for an antigen or antibody or hormone or drug, or is the focus of contact by a virus or phagocyte or nerve fiber etc.
   type of:

   somatic cell, vegetative cell

   any of the cells of a plant or animal except the reproductive cells; a cell that does not participate in the production of gametes
2. noun

   an abnormal red blood cell with the appearance of a dark ring surrounding a dark center; associated with anemia
   type of:

   RBC, erythrocyte, red blood cell

   a mature blood cell that contains hemoglobin to carry oxygen to the bodily tissues; a biconcave disc that has no nucleus