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Are sigma modulators an effective opportunity for cancer treatment? A patent overview (1996-2016)

Simona Collina1, Emanuele Bignardi1, Marta Rui1

  • 1a Drug Sciences Department, Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Technology Section , University of Pavia , Pavia , Italy.

Expert Opinion on Therapeutic Patents
|January 5, 2017
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Sigma Receptors (SRs) are emerging targets for novel cancer therapies. Patent analysis reveals increasing interest in SR modulators for cancer treatment and diagnosis, with some agents in clinical trials.

Area of Science:

  • Pharmacology
  • Oncology
  • Intellectual Property Law

Background:

  • There is a persistent need for novel cancer therapeutic strategies beyond conventional chemotherapy.
  • Overexpression of Sigma Receptors (SRs) is increasingly linked to various cancer types.
  • Targeting SRs offers potential for more specific cancer therapies, mitigating chemotherapy side effects.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review patent documents disclosing Sigma Receptor (SR) modulators for potential cancer therapy and diagnosis.
  • To analyze patents from 1996-2016, categorizing them by SR subtype (S1R, S2R, pan-SRs) and applicants.
  • To assess the current landscape and future potential of SR modulators in oncology.

Main Methods:

  • Literature search of patent databases including Espacenet, ISI Web, PatentScope.
  • Systematic review and categorization of patents related to SR modulators in cancer.
  • Analysis of patent trends over two decades (1996-2016).

Main Results:

  • A significant increase in patents concerning SRs and cancer over the last 20 years was observed.
  • Patents cover modulators targeting S1R, S2R, and pan-SR subtypes.
  • Many identified SR modulators are in pre-clinical development, with one agent in Phase II clinical trials.

Conclusions:

  • Sigma Receptors represent a promising target family for developing innovative anti-cancer therapeutics.
  • SR ligands hold potential for highly specific antitumor treatments.
  • Further research and validation are crucial to establish SR modulators as effective anti-cancer drugs, encouraging academic and industry collaboration.
Keywords:
CancerS1R and S2R modulatorsdiagnostic and therapeutic toolsdrug conjugatespan-SR ligandssigma receptors (SRs)

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