cutamesine

Cutamesine (SA4503) is a potent and selective small molecule agonist of the sigma-1 receptor, an endoplasmic reticulum-resident chaperone protein. By activating sigma-1 receptors, cutamesine modulates intracellular calcium signaling, reduces oxidative stress, and promotes the expression of neurotrophic factors, thereby enhancing neuroplasticity and neurite outgrowth. It was primarily investigated for its potential to improve functional recovery following ischemic stroke and for the treatment of major depressive disorder. Additionally, it has been explored in neurodegenerative conditions such as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Parkinson's disease due to its neuroprotective properties. Development was largely led by M's Science Corporation, a subsidiary of Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma, though clinical progress has largely stalled.

Brand names

Cutamesine

Other names

1-[2-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)ethyl]-4-(3-phenylpropyl)piperazinecutamesine dihydrochloride