Question

Explain the term, target molecules or drug targets as used in medicinal chemistry.

Answer 1

The term target molecule has various meanings, depending upon the field in which it is being studied. Basically, the meanings for each discipline and or field change.

In medicinal chemistry: A target molecule or a drug targets refers to the key molecules which are involved in certain metabolic pathways that result in specific diseases.

This includes carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids as examples of drug targets.

This is because the drugs interacts with macro-molecules in the body

Answer 2

Answer:

• In medicinal chemistry, drug targets refer to the key molecules involved in certain metabolic pathways that result in specific diseases.
• Carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids are examples of drug targets.  
• Drugs are chemical agents designed to inhibit these target molecules by binding with the active sites of the key molecules.