Småmolekylärt

Småmolekylärt is a Swedish term that translates to "small molecule" in English. It refers to a chemical compound with a low molecular weight. Generally, small molecules have a molecular weight of less than 900 Daltons. They are distinct from macromolecules like proteins, nucleic acids, and carbohydrates, which have significantly larger molecular weights.

The term "small molecule" is widely used in various scientific fields, including chemistry, biology, and pharmacology. In drug discovery, small molecules are a major class of therapeutic agents. Many drugs currently on the market are small molecules that can interact with specific biological targets within the body, such as enzymes or receptors, to elicit a therapeutic effect. Their small size allows them to readily cross cell membranes and reach their intracellular targets.

The synthesis and study of small molecules is a core aspect of organic chemistry. Researchers design and create novel small molecules with desired properties for applications ranging from pharmaceuticals to materials science. Understanding the relationship between a small molecule's structure and its function is crucial for developing new drugs and other useful chemical substances. The diversity of small molecules is vast, and their impact on science and technology continues to grow.