Glossary

Biochemistry, molecular genetics, and biology glossary terms for Companion Sites.

ligand

A ligand is any molecule, atom, or ion that specifically and reversibly binds to a protein, inducing a conformational change in the protein.

Common examples include neurotransmitters or signaling molecules that bind to receptor proteins and DNA (as a ligand) bound to protein transcription factors.

. . . since 10/06/06