pharmacophore

A pharmacophore is the specific 3D arrangement of features in a molecule responsible for its biological activity, such as binding to a target like a protein or receptor. It includes elements like shapes, charges, and hydrogen atoms that must be positioned correctly for the molecule to have its intended effect. Think of it as a molecular blueprint that guides how drugs interact with their target, ensuring that the right features align properly to produce the desired biological response. This concept helps in designing and discovering new medications with effective and targeted actions.