New biologically active molecules in milligram quantities

 

The sigma-1 receptor is a transmembrane protein expressed in many different tissue types. It is particularly concentrated in certain regions of the central nervous system. It has been implicated in myriad phenomena, including cardiovascular function, schizophrenia, clinical depression, the effects of cocaine abuse, and cancer. Much is known about the binding affinity of hundreds of synthetic compounds to the sigma-1 receptor.

New small-molecule inhibitors of the Hedgehog signaling pathway

 

In a growing embryo, cells develop differently in the head or tail end of the embryo, the left or right, and other positions. They also form segments which develop into different body parts. The Hedgehog signaling pathway (Hh) gives cells information that they need to make the embryo develop properly. Different parts of the embryo have different concentrations of hedgehog signaling proteins. The pathway also has roles in the adult. When the pathway malfunctions, it can result in diseases like basal cell carcinoma.