Drugs typically interact with which molecules as their targets?

Drugs primarily interact with biomolecules such as carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids because these molecules play crucial roles in biological processes and are involved in various signaling pathways within the body.

Proteins, for instance, may serve as receptors, enzymes, or transporters, allowing drugs to exert their effects by modifying the activity or behavior of these proteins. For example, many medications target specific receptors on cell membranes, which can lead to a physiological response, such as pain relief or reduced inflammation.

Additionally, nucleic acids, particularly DNA and RNA, can also be targets for drugs, especially in the case of antiviral or anticancer therapies, where drugs aim to inhibit the replication of viral genomes or cancerous cells by interfering with their genetic material.

While vitamins, minerals, hormones, and neurotransmitters are important in biological functions and can influence drug action, the primary interaction sites for drugs are the larger biomolecules that participate in a wider range of metabolic processes within living organisms. Thus, the broad category of biomolecules encompasses the various ways in which drugs can influence biology to achieve therapeutic effects.