Ligands: Difference between revisions
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In the context of [[drug discovery]] and [[chemical biology]], ligands are small molecules that are recognized by proteins. | In the context of [[drug discovery]] and [[chemical biology]], ligands are small (usually organic) molecules that are recognized by and bind specifically and stoichiometrically to proteins. | ||
For [[enzymes]], "ligand" often means inhibitors, but also includes [[substrates]]. | For [[enzymes]], "ligand" often means inhibitors, but also includes [[substrates]]. | ||
Revision as of 21:25, 12 February 2009
In the context of drug discovery and chemical biology, ligands are small (usually organic) molecules that are recognized by and bind specifically and stoichiometrically to proteins.
For enzymes, "ligand" often means inhibitors, but also includes substrates.
For receptors, "ligand" can mean either agonists, antagonists or reverse agonists.