Abstract
The neuronal nicotinic receptor has gained considerable recognition as a target, not just for combating drug addiction but also for treating a number of illnesses ranging from neurodegenerative diseases to psychotic disorders like schizophrenia. This recognition has led to a burgeoning field examining the receptor at all levels. A class of nicotinic receptors that contains the α7 gene product, apparently as a homomer, illustrates this multidisciplinary approach. Here, we review recent progress in our understanding of this class of receptors based on data from molecular, structural, physiological and patho-physiological studies. These studies have set the stage for rational drug design to combat disorders of the central nervous system. The studies also exemplify the cautious approach needed in developing CNS therapies and the importance of physiology in tempering drug design.
Keywords: Nicotinic Receptors, Drug Design, neurodegenerative diseases, psychotic disorders, schizophrenia, α7 gene product, central nervous system
Current Medicinal Chemistry
Title: Nicotinic Receptors Containing the α7 Subunit: A Model for Rational Drug Design
Volume: 15 Issue: 28
Author(s): G. Sharma and S. Vijayaraghavan
Affiliation:
Keywords: Nicotinic Receptors, Drug Design, neurodegenerative diseases, psychotic disorders, schizophrenia, α7 gene product, central nervous system
Abstract: The neuronal nicotinic receptor has gained considerable recognition as a target, not just for combating drug addiction but also for treating a number of illnesses ranging from neurodegenerative diseases to psychotic disorders like schizophrenia. This recognition has led to a burgeoning field examining the receptor at all levels. A class of nicotinic receptors that contains the α7 gene product, apparently as a homomer, illustrates this multidisciplinary approach. Here, we review recent progress in our understanding of this class of receptors based on data from molecular, structural, physiological and patho-physiological studies. These studies have set the stage for rational drug design to combat disorders of the central nervous system. The studies also exemplify the cautious approach needed in developing CNS therapies and the importance of physiology in tempering drug design.
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Cite this article as:
Sharma G. and Vijayaraghavan S., Nicotinic Receptors Containing the α7 Subunit: A Model for Rational Drug Design, Current Medicinal Chemistry 2008; 15 (28) . https://dx.doi.org/10.2174/092986708786848703
DOI https://dx.doi.org/10.2174/092986708786848703 |
Print ISSN 0929-8673 |
Publisher Name Bentham Science Publisher |
Online ISSN 1875-533X |
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