Multiple predicted protein targets

The term Multiple predicted protein targets is a generic classification used in bioinformatics and drug discovery databases, such as ChEMBL, to indicate that a compound has been computationally predicted to interact with several distinct proteins (Mendez et al., 2019). It does not refer to a single, specific molecular entity, receptor, or enzyme, but rather serves as a placeholder for results derived from in silico screening methods like SwissTargetPrediction or molecular docking (Gfeller et al., 2014). These predictions are often used to hypothesize the polypharmacological profile of a drug or to identify potential off-target effects that may lead to toxicity or secondary therapeutic benefits. Because this designation encompasses an undefined and variable set of proteins, it lacks a specific biological function, conserved molecular structure, or defined role in disease pathology. In a clinical or regulatory context, this term is considered insufficient for target validation, as it does not identify the specific protein-ligand interactions required to establish a clear mechanism of action or safety profile (Schenone et al., 2013).

Not applicable