Radioligand
Radioligand
Radioligand (/ˈreɪdioʊˌlaɪɡənd/), derived from the Latin radius meaning "ray" and the English ligand meaning "a molecule that binds to another", is a type of ligand that is radiolabeled for use in radioligand binding assays, PET scans, and other medical and scientific applications.
Definition
A radioligand is a biochemical substance that is made radioactive for use in certain laboratory procedures. These substances are used in research and diagnostic applications, particularly in the fields of pharmacology and neuroscience.
Usage
Radioligands are used in radioligand binding assays, which are tests that measure the interaction of radioligands with their receptors. These assays are used to study receptor-ligand interactions, receptor density, and receptor affinity.
Radioligands are also used in PET scans, a type of medical imaging technique. In PET scans, a radioligand is injected into the body, where it binds to specific receptors. The radiation emitted by the radioligand is then detected and used to create images of the body's internal structures.
Related Terms
- Ligand: A molecule that binds to another. In the context of radioligands, the ligand is radiolabeled.
- Receptor: A protein molecule that receives chemical signals from outside a cell.
- Radioligand Binding Assay: A test that measures the interaction of radioligands with their receptors.
- PET Scan: A type of medical imaging technique that uses radioligands.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Radioligand
- Wikipedia's article - Radioligand
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