A supramolecular approach to medicinal chemistry: medicine beyond the molecule. - Smith, David K. 4 0 16; 5
ABSTRACT : This article focuses on the essential roles played by intermolecular forces in mediating the interactions between chemical molecules and biological systems. Intermolecular forces constitute a key topic in chemistry programs, yet can sometimes seem disconnected from real-life applications. However, by taking a supramolecular view of medicinal chemistry and focusing on interactions between molecules, it is possible to come to a deeper understanding of recent developments in medicine. This allows us to gain a real insight into the interface between biology and chemistry-an interdisciplinary area that is crucial for the development of modern medicinal products. This article emphasizes a conceptual view of medicinal chemistry, which has important implications for the future, as the supramolecular approach to medicinal-chemistry products outlined here is rapidly allowing nanotechnology to converge with medicine. In particular, this article discusses recent developments including the rational design of drugs such as Relenza and Tamiflu, the mode of action of vancomycin, and the mechanism by which bacteria develop resistance, drug delivery using cyclodextrins, and the importance of supramolecular chemistry in understanding protein aggregation diseases such as Alzheimer's and Creutzfield-Jacob. The article also indicates how taking a supramolecular approach will enable the development of new nanoscale medicines.
Keywords: 2 -- 0; 6; Supra molecular chemistry.;Pharmaceutical chemistry.;Molecules.;Chemicals.;Drugs.;Intermolecular forces. -- 20; 20; 2