Dictionary of Biological Psychology
A term describing the interaction of a LIGAND and RECEPTOR; in biological psychology, when one discusses receptor binding one is referring to NEUROTRANSMITTERS or a DRUG acting at a receptor BINDING SITE on the MEMBRANE of a NEURON, though there are many other forms of chemical-receptor interaction that can be described (see, for example, STEREOCHEMICAL THEORY OF ODOUR DISCRIMINATION). Receptor binding occurs in a ‘lock and key’ manner: there are specific receptors to which specific molecules can bind. The stereochemical structure of a MOLECULE (see STEREOCHEMISTRY) will determine whether or not it can bind to a receptor.
Note that normally one finds REVERSIBLE BINDING: that is, the receptor and ligand do not form permanent chemical bonds, but only weak ones that can easily be broken. IRREVERSIBLE BINDING, when a ligand forms a more or less permanent bond with a receptor can occur. Binding obeys the LAW OF MASS ACTION and should show a dose-effect relationship (see DOSE EFFECT CURVE).
See also: affinity; allosteric binding; autoradiography; competitive—non-competitive binding; dose response curve
References
Feldman R., Meyer J.S. & Quenzer L.F. (1997) Principles of Neuropsychopharmacology, Sinauer Associates: Sunderland MA.
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