Protein-Ligand Complexes

Protein-ligand complexes occur when a specific molecule (ligand) binds to a protein, often to trigger or inhibit a biological process. The ligand fits into a designated site on the protein, similar to a key fitting into a lock, though the interaction involves precise molecular forces. This binding can change the protein's shape or activity, affecting how cells function. Understanding these complexes is vital for drug development, as many medicines work by targeting specific protein-ligand interactions to treat diseases.