ligand
|li-gand|
/ˈlaɪɡənd/
binding molecule
Etymology
'ligand' originates from Modern Latin, specifically the word 'ligandus,' where Latin 'ligare' meant 'to bind.'
'ligandus' (Latin participle) was used in scientific/Modern Latin contexts and was adopted into English as 'ligand' in chemical and biochemical terminology in the late 19th to 20th century.
Initially related to the idea of 'something to be bound' or 'binding,' but over time it evolved into the technical noun meaning 'an atom or molecule that binds (to a central atom or a biological receptor).'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
in coordination chemistry: an atom, ion, or molecule that donates one or more pairs of electrons to a central metal atom or ion to form a coordinate (dative) covalent bond.
The ligand coordinates to the central metal ion, forming a stable complex.
Synonyms
Noun 2
in biochemistry and pharmacology: a molecule that binds specifically to a site on a target protein (such as a receptor, enzyme, or transporter), often triggering or blocking a biological response.
The ligand binds to the receptor and activates a signaling pathway.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/12/30 04:04