What is referred to as a compound that activates some receptor subtypes while blocking others?

The term that describes a compound that activates some receptor subtypes while blocking others is indeed a mixed agonist-antagonist. This type of compound can function in a dual capacity; it can activate certain receptors that lead to a physiological response (agonistic effect) while simultaneously blocking different receptors that would normally elicit a contrasting effect (antagonistic effect).

Understanding the role of these compounds is essential in fields like pharmacology and neurobiology, as this property allows for nuanced control of receptor activity. For example, in pain management, a mixed agonist-antagonist can provide analgesic benefits without some of the side effects associated with full agonists, such as dependency and tolerance.

This contrasts with other types of compounds: full agonists exclusively activate their target receptors to elicit a maximum response, full antagonists completely block receptor activity without eliciting any effect, and partial agonists activate receptors but produce a weaker response compared to full agonists.