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Ligands
Small molecules or minerals that bind to a larger molecule.
Molecules that bind specifically to receptors, transporters, or enzymes, eliciting biological responses. Hormones, vitamins, and metal ions all serve as ligands in nutrition-related signaling.
How one textbook covers it
Advanced Nutrition and Human Metabolism, 8th ed. (Gropper) — Glossary
Molecules that bind specifically to receptors, transporters, or enzymes, eliciting biological responses. Hormones, vitamins, and metal ions all serve as ligands in nutrition-related signaling.
Related terms
Chelators, Receptors