Sigma-1

Sigma-1 receptor (σ1R), one of two sigma receptor subtypes, is a chaperone protein at the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) that modulates calcium signaling through the IP3 receptor. In humans, the sigma-1 receptor is encoded by the SIGMAR1 gene.

Function

The sigma-1 receptor acts as a chaperone at the ER-mitochondrion interface. It has been found to bind various ligands, such as psychoactive drugs, including cocaine and methamphetamine. It also interacts with some other proteins, such as BiP and GRP78.

Clinical significance

Sigma-1 receptors are implicated in the drug addiction and the diseases like Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and cancer. They might also have a role in the treatment of depression, as they are thought to be involved in the mechanism of action of some antidepressants.

Ligands

Many ligands bind to sigma-1 receptors to produce pharmacological effects. Some of them are used for therapeutic purposes, while others are used in scientific research.

See also

• Sigma-2 receptor
• Endoplasmic reticulum

External links

• Sigma-1 receptor at the US National Library of Medicine Medical Subject Headings (MeSH)

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