Work

Update on GPCR-based targets for the development of novel antidepressants

Year: 2021

Type: article

Abstract: Traditional antidepressants largely interfere with monoaminergic transport or degradation systems, taking several weeks to have their therapeutic actions. Moreover, a large proportion of depressed patients are resistant to these therapies. Several atypical antidepressants have been developed which interact with G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) instead, as direct targeting of receptors may achieve more efficacious and faster antidepressant actions. The focus of this review is to provide an update on how distinct GPCRs mediate antidepressant actions and discuss recent insights into how GPCRs regulate the pathophysiology of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). We also discuss the therapeutic potential of novel GPCR targets, which are appealing due to their ligand selectivity, expression pattern, or pharmacological profiles. Finally, we highlight recent advances in understanding GPCR pharmacology and structure, and how they may provide new avenues for drug development.

Source: Molecular Psychiatry

DOI: 10.1038/s41380-021-01040-1

Authors: Ioannis Mantas, Marcus Saarinen, Zhi-Qing David Xu, Per Svenningsson

Institutions: Karolinska Institutet, Capital Medical University, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders

Language: English

Topic: Treatment of Major Depression

Subfield: Pharmacology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,861