Binding Site
Definition
A binding site is a region on a protein or piece of DNA where a specific molecule, such as another protein or a small chemical compound, can bind. This interaction often results in a change in the function or activity of the protein.
Analogy
Think of the binding site like a lock on your front door. Only the correct key (the specific molecule) can fit into that lock (the binding site) and unlock the door (activate the function). If you try to use an incorrect key, it won't fit and nothing will happen.
Related terms
Active Site: The part of an enzyme where substrates bind and undergo a chemical reaction.
Ligand: A substance that forms a complex with a biomolecule to serve a biological purpose. In protein-ligand binding, the ligand is usually a molecule which produces a signal by binding to a site on target protein.
Receptor: A specialized cell or group of nerve endings that responds to sensory stimuli.
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