A neurotransmitter receptor (also known as a neuroreceptor) is a membrane receptor protein that is activated by a neurotransmitter. A membrane protein interacts with the phospholipid bilayer that encloses the cell and a membrane receptor protein interacts with a chemical in the cells external environment, which binds to the cell. Membrane receptor proteins, in neuronal and glial cells, allow cells to communicate with one another through chemical signals.