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Sigma-2 Receptor as a Potential Drug Target
Ai-Fang Chen1, Wen-Hui Ma1, Xiao-Yang Xie1
1School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Medical University, 1 Xincheng Ave, Songshan Lake Technology Park, Dongguan, Guangdong 523808, China.
The sigma-2 receptor is crucial for cancer and nerve cell health. Targeting this receptor with agonists or antagonists shows promise for treating cancer and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Neuroscience
- Oncology
Background:
- The sigma-2 receptor is implicated in cellular processes including apoptosis, drug efficacy, and nerve cell protection.
- It interacts with key pathways like ROS, LDL, mTOR, and autophagy, and is highly expressed in proliferating and nerve cells.
- Its roles suggest potential as a molecular target for various diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the multifaceted roles of the sigma-2 receptor.
- To explore its therapeutic potential in cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.
- To highlight the significance of sigma-2 receptor modulation.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on sigma-2 receptor function and expression.
- Analysis of research on sigma-2 receptor agonists and antagonists.
- Examination of the receptor's association with disease pathways.
Main Results:
- Sigma-2 receptor agonists demonstrate anticancer activities.
- Sigma-2 receptor antagonists show neuroprotective effects and inhibit Aβ oligomers.
- The receptor's involvement in apoptosis, drug efficacy, and nerve cell protection is confirmed.
Conclusions:
- Sigma-2 receptor agonists and antagonists represent potential therapeutic agents for cancer.
- Both agonists and antagonists show promise for managing neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease.
- The sigma-2 receptor is a valuable molecular target for developing novel imaging and therapeutic strategies.
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