Molecular targets are specific molecules in the body, such as proteins, enzymes, or nucleic acids, that play a crucial role in biological processes. These targets are often involved in disease mechanisms, making them important for the development of new therapies. By understanding how these molecules function, researchers can design drugs that interact with them to modify their activity, potentially leading to improved treatment outcomes. In drug discovery, identifying and validating molecular targets is essential for creating effective medications. For example, cancer treatments often focus on targeting specific proteins that promote tumor growth. By inhibiting these targets, therapies can slow down or stop the progression of the disease, highlighting the importance of molecular targets in modern medicine.