Track 49: Pharmacodynamics at the molecular level

Pharmacodynamics at the Molecular Level focuses on how drugs interact with biological molecules to produce their therapeutic and adverse effects. It examines the mechanisms by which drugs bind to specific molecular targets—such as receptors, enzymes, ion channels, and transporters—and how these interactions trigger or inhibit biochemical and cellular processes.

At the molecular level, pharmacodynamics explains concepts such as drug–receptor binding, affinity, efficacy, agonism and antagonism, signal transduction pathways, and dose–response relationships. These interactions influence downstream events including gene expression, protein activation or inhibition, and changes in cellular function that ultimately lead to a clinical response.

Understanding pharmacodynamics at this level is essential for rational drug design, optimization of drug potency and selectivity, prediction of drug interactions, and minimization of side effects. It provides a scientific foundation for developing targeted therapies and personalized treatment strategies in modern pharmacology and pharmacotherapy.