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Mimicking the Function of Signaling Proteins: Toward Artificial Signal Transduction Therapy
Published on: September 29, 2016
Calcimimetics and calcilytics--fooling the calcium receptor
Simon J Steddon1, John Cunningham
1Department of Renal Medicine and Transplantation, Bart's and The London NHS Trust, London, UK.
Lancet (London, England)
|June 28, 2005
Summary
Pharmacological manipulation of the calcium-sensing receptor (CaR) offers new treatments for hyperparathyroidism. Calcimimetics are licensed, while calcilytics may treat osteoporosis by affecting parathyroid hormone (PTH).
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
- Bone Biology
Background:
- The calcium-sensing receptor (CaR) is a key regulator of mineral ion homeostasis.
- Pharmacological agents targeting the CaR are emerging for endocrine disorders.
- Calcimimetics and calcilytics represent novel therapeutic strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding and future directions of CaR-targeted therapies.
- To discuss the role of calcimimetics in managing hyperparathyroid states.
- To explore the potential of calcilytics in treating osteoporosis and other bone disorders.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent clinical studies and pharmacological research on CaR modulators.
- Analysis of the mechanisms of action for calcimimetics and calcilytics.
- Discussion of ongoing and future research in CaR pharmacology.
Main Results:
- Calcimimetics, such as cinacalcet, have demonstrated efficacy in reducing serum calcium and PTH in primary hyperparathyroidism.
- Further studies are needed to confirm long-term efficacy and explore applications in secondary hyperparathyroidism.
- Calcilytics hold potential for treating osteoporosis by modulating parathyroid hormone (PTH) effects on bone.
Conclusions:
- Pharmacological targeting of the CaR is a rapidly advancing field with significant clinical implications.
- CaR modulators offer promising therapeutic avenues for hyperparathyroidism and bone diseases.
- Continued research into CaR signaling and expression is crucial for developing new treatments.
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