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When scientists develop drugs against infective agents the term 'rational drug design' or 'designed drug' is often used - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 3 - 2006 - Paper 1
Question 3
When scientists develop drugs against infective agents the term 'rational drug design' or 'designed drug' is often used. Explain what is meant by the term 'designed ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:When scientists develop drugs against infective agents the term 'rational drug design' or 'designed drug' is often used - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 3 - 2006 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain what is meant by the term 'designed drug'
Answer
The term 'designed drug' refers to a medication that has been specifically developed based on the understanding of the biological mechanisms of a disease or its causative agent. This approach utilizes molecular biology and computer modeling to create pharmaceuticals that target specific proteins or pathways associated with the virus, thereby enhancing efficacy while minimizing side effects. In rational drug design, the molecular structure of the drug is tailored to fit precisely with its target, similar to a key fitting into a lock.
Step 2
Design a drug that will be effective against this virus
Answer
To design an effective drug against the specified virus, the following aspects should be considered:
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Target Identification: Identify critical proteins involved in the virus's lifecycle, such as those necessary for attachment to the host cell or for the release of new viral particles.
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Mechanism of Action: The drug should inhibit the virus's ability to bind to the host cell by blocking the viral proteins or receptor sites on the host cells. Alternatively, the drug could prevent the replication of viral DNA once inside the host cell.
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Drug Formulation: The physical and chemical properties of the drug should support absorption and distribution in the human body to ensure it reaches the site of infection in effective concentrations.
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Safety and Efficacy: Conduct trials to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the drug in blocking viral reproduction and minimizing harm to host cells.
Diagram Reference
Diagrams showcasing the binding of the drug to virus proteins and the subsequent blockage of the host cell attachment could be drawn in the provided space.