[Omega benzodiazepine receptor subtypes and new ligands]

Pharmacological and biochemical studies indicate that for many receptors, distinct subtypes exist; the multiplicity and diversity of signal reception proteins increase the information-handling capacity of neurons, thus contributing to neural plasticity. This is also the case for the allosteric modulatory-centre omega of the GABA-A receptor. Binding studies suggest the presence of at least two pharmacologically distinct omega receptors in the human brain; furthermore, molecular biological studies have confirmed the existence of genes encoding different omega subtypes. As omega receptors are the site of action of benzodiazepines and other anxiolytic compounds, this knowledge may be useful for developing new subtype-specific drugs, with more selective therapeutic effects.