Cellular biomolecules

Cellular biomolecules is a broad, collective term encompassing all organic molecules produced by living organisms, including proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, and carbohydrates (National Human Genome Research Institute, 2024). These molecules are essential for all biological processes, such as the catalysis of metabolic reactions by enzymes, the storage of genetic information in DNA, and the maintenance of cellular structure (Wikipedia, 2024). In the context of drug discovery, this term is considered incorrect or too generic to represent a specific therapeutic target, as it does not refer to a single identifiable receptor, enzyme, or signaling protein. While some older or highly reactive drugs, such as alkylating agents, interact non-specifically with various cellular biomolecules like DNA and proteins to exert cytotoxic effects, modern pharmacology focuses on high-affinity interactions with specific molecular targets to ensure safety and efficacy (PubChem, 2024). Consequently, targeting cellular biomolecules as a whole typically results in significant off-target effects, high systemic toxicity, and a narrow therapeutic window, making it an unsuitable designation for precision medicine (StatPearls, 2023).

Other names

BiomoleculesBiological moleculesMacromoleculesOrganic cellular components

Non-specific chemical modification (e.g., alkylation, cross-linking) of various cellular components including DNA, RNA, and proteins (StatPearls, 2023).