A biochemical ligand is an ion or molecule that binds a protein. For a receptor, a ligand may activate signaling, prevent activation, or have another effect. This usage concerns protein binding; it is distinct from the coordination-chemistry use of the word. See the protein-binding reference under receptor.
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In biochemistry, a ligand is a molecule that binds to a specific site on a target protein, which is often a receptor or an enzyme, to form a complex. This interaction can lead to various biological responses and plays a crucial role in many biochemical processes. Ligands can be diverse in nature and can include small molecules, ions, or larger biomolecules such as peptides, proteins, or nucleic acids.