ligand Definition
- 1an ion or molecule attached to a metal atom by coordinate bonding
- 2a molecule that binds to a receptor site of another molecule
Using ligand: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "ligand" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The ligand binds to the metal atom, forming a coordination complex.
Example
The drug acts as a ligand, binding to the receptor site on the protein.
ligand Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with ligand
protein-ligand interaction
the binding of a ligand molecule to a specific site on a protein molecule
Example
The protein-ligand interaction is crucial for the function of many biological processes.
metal-ligand complex
a coordination compound formed by the attachment of a ligand to a metal ion
Example
The metal-ligand complex has unique properties that make it useful in catalysis.
a ligand that is produced naturally within an organism
Example
Endorphins are endogenous ligands that bind to opioid receptors in the brain.
Summary: ligand in Brief
'Ligand' [ˈlaɪɡənd] refers to either an ion or molecule that binds to a metal atom through coordinate bonding or a molecule that binds to a receptor site on another molecule. Examples include 'The ligand binds to the metal atom, forming a coordination complex.' and 'The drug acts as a ligand, binding to the receptor site on the protein.' Phrases like 'protein-ligand interaction' and 'metal-ligand complex' describe specific types of ligand interactions.
