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Positive Allosteric Modulator

Meaning

A Positive Allosteric Modulator (PAM) is a pharmaceutical agent that binds to a receptor at an allosteric site, which is structurally distinct from the primary binding site of the natural, endogenous hormone or neurotransmitter. The binding of a PAM induces a conformational change in the receptor protein that specifically increases the receptor’s affinity or efficacy for its natural ligand. Unlike traditional agonists, PAMs only enhance the cellular response when the natural ligand is present, offering a more subtle, physiological form of therapeutic intervention in complex hormonal and neurological signaling systems.