Abstract

Multimerization offers unique kinetic and thermodynamic properties to molecules. Multimeric ligands, characterized by multiple similar or different monomeric molecules tethered together, can bind several receptors simultaneously. Multimerization occurs also in nature. This process can be used to develop molecules with high diagnostic and therapeutic value. By altering parameters as linkers` length and flexibility, scaffold and backbones insertion, and ligands-receptors recognition, it is possible to provide high selectivity and binding affinity. The resultant multimeric ligand has a more favorable binding affinity than corresponding monomeric ligands.

Keywords: Multimerization, binding, avidity, cooperativity, valency, ligand design, nuclear imaging, nanotechnology