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Molecular Complexity

Meaning

Molecular Complexity refers to the degree of structural intricacy within a chemical compound, encompassing factors such as the number of stereocenters, the variety of functional groups, and the overall three-dimensional shape of the molecule. In pharmaceutical science and hormonal health, a high degree of molecular complexity often correlates with increased specificity for a particular biological target, such as a hormone receptor or enzyme active site. However, increased complexity can also pose challenges in manufacturing, stability, and predicting metabolic fate within the body. Balancing complexity with bioavailability is a constant challenge in drug design.