Molecular and Experimental Pharmacology Quiz

A field of study that investigates how drugs interact with biological systems at the molecular level. It focuses on the mechanisms of action of drugs, their binding to target proteins, and the signaling pathways they activate or inhibit.

The study of how drugs affect the body's overall function, encompassing all stages from absorption to elimination.

The study of the effects of drugs on the body, including the mechanisms by which they exert their therapeutic or adverse effects. It focuses on the interaction between drugs and their target molecules.

A subfield of pharmacology that investigates how genetic differences between individuals influence their response to drugs.

An extension of pharmacogenetics that examines the influence of the entire genome on drug response. It explores the broader genetic landscape and its impact on drug action.

The process of identifying new drugs or biological targets that can be used to modify a specific pathway and treat a disease. It typically involves screening large libraries of compounds or genes, and then evaluating the effects of these candidates on the target under investigation.

A phenotypic screening approach that uses high-throughput techniques to identify compounds that exhibit a particular biological activity or effect. It often involves testing large libraries of compounds against cells or biological systems.

A strategy for drug discovery that begins by identifying a specific target molecule and then seeking compounds that bind to and affect the function of that target. This approach often relies on knowledge of disease mechanisms, genomics, and molecular target biology.

An approach to drug discovery that starts with an observed pharmacological effect and then seeks to identify the molecular target responsible for that effect. It's often used to discover the targets of traditional remedies or drugs whose mechanisms were previously unknown.

A comprehensive study of an organism's entire genetic makeup. It involves sequencing and analyzing all the DNA present in an individual, providing insights into genetic variation, disease susceptibility, and drug response.

A type of genetic research that investigates the association between specific genetic variations and the risk of developing a disease. It compares the genomes of large populations of individuals with and without a particular disease to identify genetic variations that may be linked to the disease's development.

Genetic variants or mutations that have a protective effect against a particular disease, reducing an individual's risk of developing that condition. These variations can provide valuable insights into disease pathways and suggest potential drug targets.

A drug development strategy that focuses on tailoring treatment plans to the unique genetic makeup of each individual. It aims to optimize drug selection and dosage based on individual genetic variations, aiming to improve treatment efficacy and reduce side effects.

A type of therapeutic approach that targets specific proteins or pathways involved in the development or progression of a disease. This approach often involves using drugs that specifically bind to and modulate the function of those targets, aiming to achieve a therapeutic effect.

A category of drugs that are large, complex molecules often derived from biological sources. Examples include antibodies, proteins, and nucleic acid-based compounds.

The process by which drugs are absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and eliminated from the body. It describes the movement of drugs through the body from the time they are administered to the time they are eliminated.

A drug's ability to bind selectively to its intended molecular target. It reflects the degree to which a drug preferentially interacts with its intended target, minimizing off-target effects and improving therapeutic effectiveness.

A property of biological systems that allows multiple pathways or molecules to contribute to a similar response. This redundancy can compensate for the loss or inhibition of individual pathways or molecules, making it difficult to target a single pathway or molecule effectively.

A type of drug interaction that involves the binding of a drug to a receptor molecule, triggering a response that mimics or enhances the action of the natural ligand. These drugs activate the same signaling pathways as the natural ligand.

A type of drug interaction that involves the binding of a drug to a receptor molecule, blocking the action of the natural ligand and preventing its activity. These drugs prevent the natural ligand from activating its signaling pathways.

The process of validating a potential drug target by demonstrating that modulating its function has a therapeutic effect in a disease model. It typically involves evaluating the effects of drugs that target the candidate target in preclinical or clinical trials.

The ability of a target molecule to be effectively modulated by a drug. It considers factors such as the target's accessibility, size, and suitability for binding to small molecules.

A rare genetic variation that can lead to a protective effect against a disease. These variations provide evidence that modulating the corresponding gene or protein may be a viable therapeutic strategy.

A therapeutic approach that aims to deliver a drug directly to a specific location within the body, such as a tumor or specific tissue. This targeted delivery can improve drug efficacy and minimize side effects.

A type of drug that specifically targets a particular protein or pathway associated with a disease. These drugs are often designed to inhibit or modulate the activity of the target molecule, aiming to achieve a therapeutic effect.

A type of antibody that specifically binds to a particular target molecule, such as a protein on the surface of a cell. It can be used to block the activity of the target or deliver a therapeutic payload directly to the target cell.

A class of biopharmaceuticals that are engineered fusion proteins comprised of two or more antibodies or binding domains. They can target multiple molecules simultaneously, increasing their therapeutic potential.

A type of antibody conjugated to a cytotoxic drug. They target specific cells or tumors and deliver the drug directly to the target cells, reducing systemic toxicity.

A category of drugs that are small, non-protein molecules. They typically interact with their target molecules through non-covalent bonds, such as hydrogen bonds or van der Waals forces.

A term describing the phenomenon where prolonged exposure to a drug leads to a decrease in its effectiveness. The body adapts to the drug's presence, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect.

A state of dependence on a drug, characterized by withdrawal symptoms when the drug is discontinued. It often occurs after repeated exposure to the drug and involves physiological and psychological dependence.