1. Bioactive compounds

These are low-molecular-weight organic compounds with a molecular weight of less than 1500, derived from natural products or organic synthesis, that exhibit specific physiological activities in the human body.

2. Importance

Over the past 40 years, about three-quarters of the drugs approved by the U.S. FDA are low-molecular-weight organic compounds derived from natural products or organic synthesis. While biopharmaceuticals have been gaining attention recently, low-molecular-weight organic compounds still make up a significant portion. Remdesivir, which was granted emergency approval for treating COVID-19, is also a low-molecular-weight organic compound, indicating that these compounds remain an essential source of pharmaceuticals.

3. Scope of research

The research involves obtaining compounds/metabolites from natural samples (microorganisms, plants) related to specific diseases and elucidating their chemical structures or through organic synthesis. The therapeutic effects of the obtained compounds/metabolites on diseases are confirmed, and their applicability is evaluated.