ligand

noun

li·​gand ˈli-gənd How to pronounce ligand (audio) ˈlī- How to pronounce ligand (audio)
: a group, ion, or molecule coordinated to a central atom or molecule in a complex

Examples of ligand in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
So, ligands can help microRNAs home specifically to diseased cells while avoiding healthy cells. Andrea Kasinski, The Conversation, 7 Oct. 2024 But here’s where the trap comes in: Sprinkled amid the ACE2 receptors are ligands, little molecules that can bind to a cell receptor and, in this case, induce phagocytosis. Maggie Chen, WIRED, 26 July 2022 Identifying ligands that can deliver small RNAs to other cells requires finding receptors expressed at high enough levels on the surface of target cells. Andrea Kasinski, The Conversation, 7 Oct. 2024 The newest version of the software can predict not only the shape of proteins, but also the structures of DNA, RNA and other molecules, such as ligands. Christian Thorsberg, Smithsonian Magazine, 16 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for ligand 

Word History

Etymology

Latin ligandus, gerundive of ligare

First Known Use

1949, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ligand was in 1949

Dictionary Entries Near ligand

Cite this Entry

“Ligand.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ligand. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

ligand

noun
li·​gand ˈlig-ənd How to pronounce ligand (audio) ˈlīg- How to pronounce ligand (audio)
: a group, ion, or molecule coordinated to a central atom or molecule in a complex
liganded adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on ligand

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