proof of concept

in pharmacology
https://doi.org/10.1351/goldbook.12718
Procedure by which a specific therapeutic mechanism or treatment/diagnostic paradigm is shown to be beneficial.
Note: Similar to, and often simultaneously associated with, that for a new drug candidate. This process usually involves an early supporting step prior to clinical testing and final validation within human studies.
Source:
PAC, 2013, 85, 1725. (Glossary of terms used in medicinal chemistry. Part II (IUPAC Recommendations 2013)) on page 1748 [Terms] [Paper]