Multiple cellular proteins and receptors

The designation 'Multiple cellular proteins and receptors' is a non-specific term used in pharmacology to describe agents that interact with a broad spectrum of biological targets rather than a single, discrete molecule. This phenomenon, often referred to as polypharmacology, suggests that the observed therapeutic or toxic effects result from the cumulative modulation of various receptors, enzymes, and signaling pathways (Hopkins, A. L., Nature Chemical Biology, 2008). Such profiles are common for general anesthetics, which may affect multiple ion channels and membrane proteins, or for systemic toxins like heavy metals that bind non-selectively to sulfhydryl groups across the proteome (Aaseth, J., et al., Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology, 2015). In drug discovery databases, this entry typically serves as a placeholder for compounds with poorly defined or intentionally broad mechanisms of action. Because it lacks molecular specificity, it is not considered a valid therapeutic target for modern precision medicine and presents significant challenges in safety assessment due to extensive off-target activity (Peters, J. U., Polypharmacology in Drug Discovery, 2012).

Other names

Multi-targetNon-specific bindingPolypharmacological targets

Non-specific modulation of multiple cellular components