SYM-2081

SYM-2081 is a synthetic compound that acts as a selective agonist at the kainate receptor, a type of ionotropic glutamate receptor in the brain. It is used primarily in scientific research to study the function of kainate receptors.

Chemistry

SYM-2081 is a derivative of willardiine, a naturally occurring compound found in the seeds of the plant Acacia willardiana. It is synthesized by substituting the 5-position of the willardiine molecule with a sulfonamide group, which increases its potency and selectivity for the kainate receptor.

Pharmacology

As a kainate receptor agonist, SYM-2081 binds to and activates the kainate receptor, mimicking the effect of the neurotransmitter glutamate. This allows it to be used in research to study the role of kainate receptors in various neurological processes, including neurotransmission, synaptic plasticity, and neuronal excitability.

Research Use

SYM-2081 has been used in a variety of research contexts. For example, it has been used to study the role of kainate receptors in epilepsy, as overactivation of these receptors can lead to excessive neuronal firing and seizures. It has also been used to investigate the role of kainate receptors in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, as these receptors have been implicated in the death of neurons in these conditions.

Safety

As a research chemical, SYM-2081 is not intended for human consumption. Its safety profile in humans is unknown.

See Also

• Glutamate receptor
• Neurotransmitter
• Neurodegenerative diseases