Ligandina

Ligandina is a term that does not refer to a single, universally recognized entity but is used in some scientific writings as a generic or coined word related to ligands. The word can arise from combining ligand with the feminine or diminutive suffix -ina in several Romance languages, and as such its precise meaning depends on the author and field.

In chemistry, a ligand is an atom, ion, or molecule that donates electron density to a central atom or ion, usually a transition metal, to form a coordination complex. If encountered as a noun, ligandina could be used informally to denote a ligand or a ligand-class, though this usage is not standard in IUPAC nomenclature. Ligandina might describe monodentate ligands such as ammonia or chloride, as well as bidentate and polydentate ligands like ethylenediamine or 1,10-phenanthroline, by analogy.

In biochemistry and pharmacology, ligands refer to molecules that bind to a biological target such as a receptor or enzyme, modulating its activity. In this sense, ligandina would be a nonstandard way to refer to such molecules in informal writing.

Because Ligandina is not a formally defined taxon or established class, readers should consult the specific source for the intended meaning when encountered. See also ligand, coordination chemistry, receptor, and enzyme.