Not a molecular target

This designation refers to entities, processes, or categories that do not correspond to a recognized molecular target—such as receptors, enzymes, channels, or transporters—as defined in pharmacology or molecular biology[1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10]. Examples could include physical processes (e.g., tissue ablation), population descriptions (e.g., bacterial colonization), or whole-organism vaccines, which do not function as direct targets for therapeutic drugs or interventions[1][2][3]. Entities labeled "not a molecular target" cannot be directly modulated by small-molecule drugs, biologics, or other agents via specific, actionable mechanisms. The phrase is sometimes used to clarify misclassification, missing information, or inappropriate entries in databases or scientific texts—this makes it "incorrect" in contexts requiring an actual molecular target for structured annotation[1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10].

Other names

Non-targetNon-molecular targetNot a receptor or enzymeNot a pharmacological target