This volume explores the critical role of conformation in the design of novel therapeutic agents, focusing on peptides and nucleic acids. It presents research from a 1983 symposium, detailing how understanding molecular structure can lead to more effective drugs. The discussions cover both the use of these biomolecules as templates for drug development and their potential as targets for therapeutic intervention, bridging fundamental chemical principles with practical pharmaceutical applications.

This collection of papers, stemming from a 1983 American Chemical Society symposium, offers a snapshot of the state of medicinal chemistry concerning peptides and nucleic acids. The focus on conformationally directed drug design suggests a technical and specialized audience interested in the molecular underpinnings of therapeutic development. The proceedings likely provide detailed chemical insights and methodologies relevant to researchers in pharmaceutical sciences and biochemistry.