Lead

{
  "id": "MLC-T-CHM-006496",
  "term": "Lead",
  "field": "Chemistry",
  "definition": "A chemical compound or substance that exhibits a desired biological activity and serves as a starting point for the development of a new drug. This initial compound is identified through screening processes and then undergoes further modification to improve its potency, selectivity, and pharmacokinetic properties. A lead compound typically possesses a modest level of activity against a specific biological target.",
  "subject": "Chemistry and Human Health",
  "see_also": [
    "lead validation"
  ],
  "references": [
    "PAC, 2013, 85, 1725. 'Glossary of terms used in medicinal chemistry. Part II (IUPAC Recommendations 2013)' on page 1739 (https://doi.org/10.1351/PAC-REC-12-11-23)"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/chemistry/lead/"
}