Advanced Placement (AP) Biology 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

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What is typically called the signal molecule that binds to a receptor?

Hormone

Ligand

The term that is typically used to describe a signal molecule that binds to a receptor is "ligand." In cellular signaling, ligands can include a wide variety of molecules such as hormones, neurotransmitters, or even drugs that interact with specific receptors on the surface of cells. When a ligand binds to its receptor, it triggers a response within the cell, leading to a cascade of biochemical events that ultimately result in a specific physiological effect.

This definition highlights the importance of the ligand's role in initiating signaling pathways. It is essential for understanding cellular communication and the mechanisms through which cells respond to their environment. Ligands can be as small as ions or gases or as complex as peptides and proteins, underscoring the diverse nature of the molecules involved in signaling processes.

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Enzyme

Transmitter

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