Dimerization

Definition

Dimerization is the process where two receptor molecules bind together to form a functional complex. This often occurs when a signaling molecule binds to the receptors, inducing their association.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Dimerization is crucial for activating many receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs).
2. It usually involves conformational changes that enable intracellular signaling.
3. Ligand binding typically triggers dimerization of cell surface receptors.
4. Dimerized receptors can autophosphorylate, initiating downstream signaling pathways.
5. Mutations affecting dimerization can lead to diseases such as cancer.

Review Questions

• What role does dimerization play in receptor tyrosine kinase activation?
• How does ligand binding affect the process of dimerization?
• Why is dimerization important for intracellular signaling pathways?

Related terms

Autophosphorylation: The addition of a phosphate group to a protein by itself, often seen with dimerized receptors.

Ligand: A molecule that binds specifically to another molecule, usually a larger one, to form a complex.

Signal Transduction: The process by which a chemical or physical signal is transmitted through a cell as a series of molecular events.