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Updated: Jun 7, 2026
07:51
A Protocol for Measuring Cue Reactivity in a Rat Model of Cocaine Use Disorder
Published on: June 18, 2018
Sigma receptors and cocaine abuse
Sanju Narayanan1, Christophe Mesangeau, Jacques H Poupaert
1Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, The University of Mississippi, University, 38677, USA.
Current Topics in Medicinal Chemistry
|November 6, 2010
Summary
Sigma receptors are key targets for cocaine
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Sigma receptors are implicated in the toxic and stimulant effects of cocaine.
- Current treatments for cocaine toxicity and addiction are lacking.
- Previous research focused heavily on dopamine systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of sigma receptors' role in cocaine's actions.
- To summarize progress in developing small molecule ligands targeting sigma receptors for cocaine-related conditions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating sigma receptors and cocaine.
- Analysis of therapeutic strategies involving sigma receptor modulation.
Main Results:
- Antisense oligonucleotides and small molecule ligands targeting sigma receptors show promise.
- Research has elucidated the role of sigma receptors in blocking cocaine's effects.
- Development of selective sigma receptor ligands is advancing.
Conclusions:
- Sigma receptors represent a promising target for novel cocaine addiction and toxicity treatments.
- While clinical agents are still lacking, ongoing research shows significant potential.
- Selective small molecules offer a viable therapeutic avenue.
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