Sigma receptors and neurological disorders

Pharmacol Rep. 2021 Dec;73(6):1582-1594. doi: 10.1007/s43440-021-00310-7. Epub 2021 Aug 5.

Abstract

Sigma receptors were identified relatively recently, and their presence has been confirmed in the central nervous system and peripheral organs. Changes in sigma receptor function or expression may be involved in neurological diseases, and thus sigma receptors represent a potential target for treating central nervous system disorders. Many substances that are ligands for sigma receptors are widely used in therapies for neurological disorders. In the present review, we discuss the roles of sigma receptors, especially in the central nervous system disorders, and related therapies.

Keywords: Central nervous system; Neurological disorders; Sigma receptors; Sigma receptors agonists; Sigma receptors antagonists.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Central Nervous System Agents / pharmacology
  • Central Nervous System Diseases / physiopathology*
  • Central Nervous System Diseases / therapy
  • Humans
  • Ligands
  • Receptors, sigma / metabolism*

Substances

  • Central Nervous System Agents
  • Ligands
  • Receptors, sigma