Ligands

A molecule that binds to another molecule, used especially to refer to a small molecule that binds specifically to a larger molecule, e.g., an antigen binding to an antibody, a hormone or neurotransmitter binding to a receptor, or a substrate or allosteric effector binding to an enzyme. Ligands are also molecules that donate or accept a pair of electrons to form a coordinate covalent bond with the central metal atom of a coordination complex. (From Dorland, 27th ed)

Year introduced: 1974(1973)

PubMed search builder options

Restrict to MeSH Major Topic.

Do not include MeSH terms found below this term in the MeSH hierarchy.

Tree Number(s): D27.720.470.480

MeSH Unique ID: D008024

Entry Terms:

• Ligand

Previous Indexing:

• Metals (1966-1972)
• Organometallic Compounds (1968-1972)

See Also:

• Radioligand Assay
• Receptors, Cell Surface

All MeSH Categories
Chemicals and Drugs Category
Chemical Actions and Uses
Specialty Uses of Chemicals
Laboratory Chemicals
Ligands