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Modulators of ASIC1a and its potential as a therapeutic target for age-related diseases
Ren-Peng Zhou1, Hong-Yu Liang2, Wei-Rong Hu3
1Department of Clinical Pharmacology, The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, China; The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education, Hefei 230032, China.
Abstract:
Age-related diseases have become more common with the advancing age of the worldwide population. Such diseases involve multiple organs, with tissue degeneration and cellular apoptosis. To date, there is a general lack of effective drugs for treatment of most age-related diseases and there is therefore an urgent need to identify novel drug targets for improved treatment. Acid-sensing ion channel 1a (ASIC1a) is a degenerin/epithelial sodium channel family member, which is activated in an acidic environment to regulate pathophysiological processes such as acidosis, inflammation, hypoxia, and ischemia. A large body of evidence suggests that ASIC1a plays an important role in the development of age-related diseases (e.g., stroke, rheumatoid arthritis, Huntington's disease, and Parkinson's disease.). Herein we present: 1) a review of ASIC1a channel properties, distribution, and physiological function; 2) a summary of the pharmacological properties of ASIC1a; 3) and a consideration of ASIC1a as a potential therapeutic target for treatment of age-related disease.
Insights
As the global population ages, age-related diseases are increasing. Acid-sensing ion channel 1a (ASIC1a) is implicated in these conditions and presents a promising new therapeutic target for drug development.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Science
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Age-related diseases are increasing globally, characterized by tissue degeneration and cellular apoptosis.
- Current treatments for many age-related diseases are limited, highlighting the need for novel therapeutic targets.
- Acid-sensing ion channel 1a (ASIC1a) is activated by acidic conditions and influences processes like inflammation and ischemia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the properties, distribution, and physiological functions of ASIC1a.
- To summarize the pharmacological characteristics of ASIC1a.
- To evaluate ASIC1a as a potential therapeutic target for age-related diseases.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of ASIC1a channel properties and function.
- Analysis of existing pharmacological data on ASIC1a.
- Synthesis of evidence linking ASIC1a to age-related disease pathogenesis.
Main Results:
- ASIC1a exhibits specific channel properties, distribution patterns, and physiological roles.
- ASIC1a has distinct pharmacological profiles that can be targeted.
- ASIC1a is significantly involved in the development of various age-related diseases, including stroke and neurodegenerative disorders.
Conclusions:
- ASIC1a is a key player in the pathophysiology of age-related diseases.
- Targeting ASIC1a offers a promising strategy for developing new treatments.
- Further research into ASIC1a pharmacology is warranted for therapeutic applications.
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