Definitions
- In biochemistry, a molecule that binds to a receptor site on a protein. - In pharmacology, a substance that interacts with a specific receptor to produce a biological response. - In chemistry, a molecule or ion that forms a complex with a central metal atom.
- In biology, a protein molecule that receives signals from outside the cell and transmits them to the inside of the cell. - In pharmacology, a protein molecule that binds to a specific ligand to produce a biological response. - In sensory physiology, a specialized nerve ending that responds to a particular stimulus.
List of Similarities
- 1Both are involved in molecular interactions.
- 2Both play a crucial role in signal transduction.
- 3Both are specific in their binding properties.
- 4Both are essential for normal physiological function.
- 5Both can be targeted by drugs for therapeutic purposes.
What is the difference?
- 1Function: Ligands bind to receptors to initiate a response, while receptors receive signals from ligands and transmit them to the cell.
- 2Location: Ligands are usually small molecules that can diffuse through the extracellular space, while receptors are typically membrane-bound proteins.
- 3Specificity: Ligands are specific to certain receptors, while receptors are specific to certain ligands.
- 4Variety: Ligands can interact with multiple types of receptors, while receptors can bind to multiple types of ligands.
- 5Role: Ligands are often used as tools to study receptor function, while receptors are often targeted for drug development.
Remember this!
Ligand and receptor are two terms commonly used in biochemistry, pharmacology, and chemistry. A ligand is a molecule that binds to a receptor site on a protein, while a receptor is a protein molecule that receives signals from outside the cell and transmits them to the inside of the cell. The main difference between the two is that ligands initiate a response, while receptors receive and transmit signals.
