In the nervous system an autoreceptor refers to transmitter receptors, on or near presynaptic terminals (or varicosities), which are sensitive to the transmitter(s) released by the terminal itself. Receptors for the hormones released by hormone-releasing cells are also included.

Just as postsynaptic neurons have receptors which detect and respond to neurotransmitters released from the presynaptic membrane into in the synaptic cleft, many presynaptic neurons have receptors that respond to the neurotransmiter that they themselves release, called autoreceptors. Autoreceptors located on the terminal buttons of the neuron do not produce changes in membrane potential. Instead, they function to control internal processes, including synthesis and release of neurotransmitter. It is believed that these autoreceptors are part of a regulatory system that controls the amount of neurotransmitter that is released. If there is too much then the receptors will downregulate, if there is too little neurotransmitter they will upregulate the production and release of that transmitter substance.