Pharmacophore modeling is a computational technique used in drug design to identify the essential features of a molecule that are necessary for its biological activity. It focuses on the spatial arrangement of atoms or groups that interact with a specific biological target, such as a protein or enzyme. By understanding these key interactions, researchers can design new compounds that mimic these features and potentially enhance their effectiveness. This approach often involves the use of software tools that analyze known active compounds to create a pharmacophore model. This model serves as a blueprint for screening large databases of chemical compounds, helping scientists identify promising candidates for further development in the search for new drugs.