LIGANDS Meaning and
Definition
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Ligands refer to molecules or molecular entities that have the ability to bind to a specific site on a receptor, usually a protein. In the field of chemistry and biochemistry, ligands are substances that can form a stable complex or coordination compound through coordination bonds with a metal ion or metal center. This binding interaction between the ligand and the receptor is generally reversible and can occur through various chemical forces, including electrostatic interactions, hydrogen bonds, or van der Waals forces.
The term ligand is commonly used in the context of coordination chemistry, where ligands can donate a pair of electrons to the metal ion, forming a coordinate bond. Ligands can vary in complexity and can be small molecules, such as water or ammonia, or more complex organic compounds, such as porphyrins or heme groups. Ligands often play a crucial role in regulating the function of biological systems and are involved in various physiological processes.
In addition to their role in coordination chemistry, ligands also have significance in drug discovery and development. Ligand-based drug design involves designing and synthesizing small molecules that can bind to a specific target receptor with high affinity and selectivity, leading to the development of new therapeutic agents. Overall, ligands are essential components in various scientific disciplines and have diverse applications in both chemical and biological sciences.
Common Misspellings for LIGANDS
Etymology of LIGANDS
The word "ligands" is derived from the Latin word "ligāre", which means "to bind" or "to tie". In chemistry, a ligand is a molecule or ion that binds to a central metal atom to form a coordination complex. The term was first used in the mid-19th century and has its roots in the concept of binding or connecting one substance to another.
Similar spelling word for LIGANDS
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