A novel galanin receptor

Abstract

This patent describes a novel galanin receptor subtype, Gal-R2, characterised at both the nucleic acid and protein levels. There are claims to expression of this receptor in vitro, antibodies directed to this protein, and use of oligonucleotides and techniques for the identification of agonists and antagonists to modulate expression of this receptor. Although there are no formal claims for its use in any one therapeutic area, it is suggested that ligands acting at Gal-R2 receptors may have applications for pain management as well as cognitive function. The use of subtype-selective drugs to modulate receptor-mediated functions is a common objective within the pharmaceutical industry; however, sole use of receptor mRNA localisation to claim specific therapeutic applications is limited in scope.

• analgesia
• cognition
• galanin
• nociception
• pain
• receptors