Small molecule inhibitors of the co-receptor neuropilin-1

Neuropilin-1 (NRP-1) is a multifunctional cell surface receptor that acts as a co-receptor for vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), semaphorins (SEMAs), and transforming growth factor β (TGF-β), and is widely involved in various physiological and pathological processes such as neural development, angiogenesis, and immune regulation. In cancer treatment, NRP-1 has attracted extensive attention because of its key role in pathological angiogenesis, tumor immune escape, and tumor progression, and it is regarded as a potential therapeutic target for tumors. In recent years, the development of small molecule inhibitors of NRP-1 has become a new research strategy. This article reviews the research progress of small molecule inhibitors of NRP-1, classifying them into three different types of small molecules, and focuses on introducing ideas for their development, mechanisms of action, and research status. It provides guidance for the future development of small molecule inhibitors of NRP-1.