Dimeric

Dimeric is an adjective used to describe a molecule or molecular complex consisting of two subunits. The two units can be identical or different, and the connection can be covalent or noncovalent. Dimerization can be reversible and sensitive to environmental conditions such as pH, redox state, temperature, and ligand binding.

In biology and biochemistry, dimers are widespread. If the two subunits are identical, the complex is a homodimer; if different, a heterodimer. Dimerization often influences stability and activity, enables cooperative binding, or is required for function. Many transcription factors and DNA-binding proteins function as dimers to recognize palindromic DNA sequences. Receptor tyrosine kinases and other signaling proteins commonly rely on dimerization for activation.

In chemistry, a dimer is a molecule formed from two monomer units linked by a bond. Dimers may form by covalent bonds or through noncovalent interactions such as hydrogen bonding or π–π stacking. They can be symmetric (homodimers) or asymmetric (heterodimers) and range from transient association to permanent structures. Dimers are encountered in polymerization processes, photochemistry, and supramolecular chemistry.