Final answer:
The interaction between a receptor protein and a ligand typically results in conformational changes that activate the signaling pathway within the cell and, in some cases, can also cause receptor dimerization.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a ligand binds to its receptor, this interaction can cause various conformational changes in the receptor's structure, typically affecting the intracellular domain. These changes can result in receptor activation and the subsequent initiation of a signaling pathway inside the cell. In certain situations, the ligand binding triggers the dimerization of the receptor, leading to the formation of a complex known as a dimer, thereby facilitating the activation of intracellular domains through their close interaction. This intricate process is essential for cells to respond to external signals and is involved in numerous cellular activities, from metabolism to gene expression.