What is "osmoreceptor"

n. A sensory receptor, primarily found in the hypothalamus of most homeothermic organisms, that detects changes in osmotic pressure

n. sensory end organ that responds to changes in osmotic pressure

An osmoreceptor is a sensory receptor primarily found in the hypothalamus of most homeothermic organisms that detects changes in osmotic pressure. Osmoreceptors can be found in several structures, including the organum vasculosum of the lamina terminalis (OVLT) and the subfornical organ (SFO). They contribute to fluid balance in the body.