Pienimolekyyleisistä

Pienimolekyyleisistä, known in English as small molecules, refers to a class of low molecular weight organic compounds. These molecules are typically defined by their molecular weight being less than 900 Daltons. Small molecules are ubiquitous in nature and play crucial roles in biological processes, serving as neurotransmitters, hormones, and signaling molecules. In the context of pharmacology and drug discovery, "pienimolekyylinen lääkeaine" refers to a drug that is a small molecule. These drugs can often be administered orally, as they are able to cross cell membranes.

The development of small molecule drugs has a long history. Many traditional medicines are derived from natural sources and are small molecules. Modern drug discovery often focuses on identifying and synthesizing small molecules that can selectively interact with specific biological targets, such as enzymes or receptors, to modulate their activity and treat diseases. Their relatively simple chemical structure allows for chemical modification and optimization of their properties, including efficacy, safety, and pharmacokinetic profile. Examples of common small molecule drugs include aspirin, ibuprofen, and statins. The field continues to evolve, with ongoing research into novel small molecule therapeutics for a wide range of conditions.