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Exploring Tetrahydroisoquinoline (THIQ) Scaffold as Therapeutic Modulators of Sigma Receptors
Dikshita Lama1, A Michael Crider1, Marcelo J Nieto1
1Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, 200 University Park Dr. Suite 220, Edwardsville, IL, 61025, United States.
Abstract:
Sigma receptors (σRs), comprising σ1 and σ2 subtypes, are versatile pharmacological targets with significant roles in cancer, neurodegeneration, and psychiatric disorders. The tetrahydroisoquinoline (THIQ) scaffold, a core structure in many biologically active compounds, has garnered attention as a versatile platform for designing σRs ligands. THIQ-based compounds exhibit potent σRs binding affinity, leading to therapeutic effects ranging from neuroprotection to antitumor activity. This mini-review explores the structural features of THIQ ligands, their interaction with σRs, and their therapeutic implications. Challenges and future prospects for THIQ derivatives in σRs research are also discussed.
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