# data[].attributes.headline
In some systems, a partial agonist can produce the same maximum response as a full agonist. Should we still call it a partial agonist?

# data[].attributes.subject
In some systems, a partial agonist can produce the same maximum response as a full agonist. Should we still call it a partial agonist?

# data[].attributes.body
Yes, because “partial” describes the intrinsic efficacy of the drug–receptor complex, not the system’s output.

In a system with spare receptors, the drug’s lower efficacy is compensated for, but the drug itself hasn’t changed.

# data[].attributes.body
If a SAM doesn’t change activity, why might it still matter pharmacologically?

It can block other allosteric ligands (like “silent competition”) or stabilize a receptor conformation that affects long-term regulation.

# data[].attributes.headline
What’s the difference between a PAM and an allosteric agonist if both enhance activity?

# data[].attributes.subject
What’s the difference between a PAM and an allosteric agonist if both enhance activity?

# data[].attributes.body
A PAM needs the orthosteric agonist to work (it boosts affinity/efficacy). An allosteric agonist can activate the receptor by itself at the allosteric site.

# data[].attributes.body
K (or KA) = the concentration of agonist required to occupy half of the available receptors.

K (or KA) = Koff /Kon

Low K (less dissociation)→ high affinity (tight binding, less agonist needed).

High K (more dissociation)→ low affinity (weak binding, more agonist needed).