Chiral drugs
Chiral Drugs
Chiral drugs (pronunciation: /ˈkaɪrəl drʌɡz/) are a type of pharmaceutical drug that contain chirality or stereoisomerism, a property of molecules that makes them non-superimposable on their mirror images.
Etymology
The term "chiral" is derived from the Greek word "χειρ" (cheir), meaning "hand," a familiar example of chirality. The term "drug" comes from the Old French "drogue," possibly derived from the Dutch word "droog" (meaning "dry"), as in "dry goods."
Definition
Chiral drugs are molecular entities that exist in two mirror-image forms, known as enantiomers. These enantiomers are often referred to as "right-handed" and "left-handed" molecules. In the context of pharmaceuticals, the different enantiomers of a chiral drug can have different biological effects.
Importance in Pharmacology
In pharmacology, the study of chiral drugs is of significant importance. This is because the two enantiomers of a chiral drug can interact differently with the target proteins in the body. One enantiomer may produce the desired therapeutic effect, while the other may be inactive or even produce unwanted effects. This has led to the development of chiral switches, where a drug is developed to contain only the therapeutically active enantiomer.
Related Terms
- Stereochemistry: The study of the three-dimensional structure of molecules and the effects of molecular shape on the properties of substances.
- Enantiomer: One of two stereoisomers that are mirror images of each other.
- Chiral switch: The process of developing a drug to contain only one enantiomer, typically the one that produces the desired therapeutic effect.
- Pharmacology: The branch of medicine concerned with the uses, effects, and modes of action of drugs.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Chiral drugs
- Wikipedia's article - Chiral drugs
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