Receptor–Ligand Interactions

Receptor–ligand interaction is the fundamental step in the initiation of a signal from outside to inside the cell, a process often called signal transduction. The fidelity of this signaling, and therefore the interaction between the receptor and specific ligand, is integral to cellular vitality and function. Defining the elements required for receptor–ligand interactions provides novel insight into the development of therapeutic agents to control (enhance or inhibit) the signaling event and therefore treat various disease states.