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Molecular Targeting

The idea behind molecular targeting is to design drugs that specifically attack the molecular pathways that cause disease, without disrupting the normal functions in our cells and tissues. Drugs developed using this approach can be less toxic and more effective than current medicines.

Already, for certain types of cancer, targeted drugs have demonstrated superior effectiveness in reducing or eliminating tumors. They have also allowed patients to maintain their quality of life without the side effects of chemotherapy.

How does one develop a targeted drug? The key comes from a better understanding of the molecular pathways as if they were part of a complex network or "circuit" of interactions. If the network can be understood, then a drug may be found that can shut down one critical pathway without disturbing others.