Receptors bind to their ligands noncovalently, according to chemistry's law of mass action.This means that
A) the specificity of binding depends on the mass of the receptor.
B) a bound ligand cannot dissociate from its receptor.
C) the mass of the ligand determines its binding characteristics.
D) binding is reversible.
E) a bound ligand is released through enzymatic action.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The law of mass action states that the formation of a complex between two molecules is proportional to their concentrations and their association and dissociation constants. Receptor-ligand binding is a reversible process, meaning that the bound ligand can dissociate from the receptor. Therefore, choice D is the correct answer. Choices A, B, C, and E are incorrect because they do not correctly describe the principle of the law of mass action in relation to receptor-ligand binding.

Receptors Bind to Their Ligands Noncovalently, According to Chemistry's Law