Multiple cellular and tissue systems

The term Multiple cellular and tissue systems is a high-level classification used in pharmacological databases, such as ChEMBL, to categorize drugs that do not interact with a single, discrete molecular target (ChEMBL Database). Instead, these agents exert their therapeutic or toxic effects across a wide range of cell types and organ systems through non-specific or systemic mechanisms. This designation is frequently applied to general anesthetics, which may alter membrane fluidity or affect multiple ion channel types throughout the central nervous system, as well as to certain electrolytes and nutritional supplements. Because the term encompasses a vast array of biological structures rather than a specific protein, enzyme, or receptor, it does not meet the criteria for a defined therapeutic target in modern drug discovery. It serves primarily as a catch-all category for substances with widespread physiological impact or poorly defined molecular mechanisms. Consequently, it is considered an incorrect or overly broad entry for a specific molecular target profile.

Other names

Systemic targetsNon-specific targetsTissue-level targets

Drugs associated with this classification typically act through non-specific physical-chemical interactions or by modulating multiple physiological pathways across various organ systems simultaneously.