Simulation of Association Curves and ‘Scatchard’ Plots of Binding Reactions Where Ligand and Receptor are Degraded or Internalized

Abstract

Frequently during the course of binding to a receptor, ligand is degraded. In some preparations receptor is degraded. And with isolated cell preparations, ligand and/or receptor are internalized. Here we present a mathematical model for the combined binding and other reactions which gives useful information about the behaviour of such systems. The set of differential equations is solved numerically to simulate association curves and the resulting values of bound and free ligand are used to construct Scatchard plots. Where non-ideal conditions exist, the Scatchard plots are generally curvilinear. Dependence of this curvilinearity on time of measurement of free and bound ligand, on degradation and internalization of ligand and on degradation and internalization of receptor is shown. Equilibrium constants derived from the Scatchard plots are generally incorrect but the derived receptor concentration is often correct. The simulations lead to possibilities for distinction among the several side reactions in ligand-receptor binding systems.