A Universe of Unexplored Small Molecules

The observable universe contains fewer stars than the number of unique organic compounds that could be developed for medical purposes. With such a huge number of molecules, it’s often difficult for chemists to identify and then make the ones with the most therapeutic benefit for a given ailment. Researchers have developed a computer algorithm that may help. It plots all known small carbon-based molecules as though they were cities on a map and identifies huge, unexplored spaces that may help fuel research into new drug therapies.
Source: NIGMS Biomedical Beat - Category: Research Source Type: news