Biased ligands: pathway validation for novel GPCR therapeutics.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), in recent years, have been shown to signal via multiple distinct pathways. Furthermore, biased ligands for some receptors can differentially stimulate or inhibit these pathways versus unbiased endogenous ligands or drugs. Biased ligands can be used to gain a deeper understanding of the molecular targets and cellular responses associated with a GPCR, and may be developed into therapeutics with improved efficacy, safety and/or tolerability. Here we review examples and approaches to pathway validation that establish the relevance and therapeutic potential of distinct pathways that can be selectively activated or blocked by biased ligands.
Trevena Inc., King of Prussia, PA, USA.
David H
DH
Rominger
Trevena Inc., King of Prussia, PA, USA.
Conrad L
CL
Cowan
Trevena Inc., King of Prussia, PA, USA.
William
W
Gowen-MacDonald
Trevena Inc., King of Prussia, PA, USA. Electronic address: JViolin@trevenainc.com.
Jonathan D
JD
Violin
D000818:Animals; D055808:Drug Discovery; D006801:Humans; D008024:Ligands; D043562:Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled / Q000378:metabolism*
D008024:Ligands; D043562:Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled