Work

Overview of the DREADDs chemogenetics and the patent landscape of their actuators

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: The ability to manipulate specific neural populations with high temporal and spatial precision has revolutionized our understanding of brain-behavior relationships. Among the most versatile tools in the chemogenetic arsenal are Designer Receptors Exclusively Activated by Designer Drugs (DREADDs). By introducing engineered proteins that remain inert to endogenous neurotransmitters but react potently to synthetic actuators, chemogenetics provides unparalleled control over neural circuits in vivo. With the field evolving, new designer ligands and designer receptors have been reported. This review provides an update on the latest advances in DREADD chemogenetics, focusing on the development of next-generation ligands and the patent landscape innovations driving the next era of precision neuromodulation.

Source: Medicinal Chemistry Research

DOI: 10.1007/s00044-026-03585-8

Authors: Subhradeep Dutta, Malliga R. Iyer

Institutions: National Institutes of Health, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism

Language: English

Topic: Photoreceptor and optogenetics research

Subfield: Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience

Field: Neuroscience

Domain: Life Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,990

Funders: National Institutes of Health, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism