CCR5 antagonists
CCR5 antagonists belong to the subcategory of pharmaceutical active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) that target the CCR5 receptor. These antagonists are designed to inhibit the activity of the CCR5 receptor, which plays a crucial role in various immune responses. CCR5 antagonists have gained significant attention in the field of HIV/AIDS treatment due to their ability to block the entry of HIV into host cells.
CCR5, short for CC chemokine receptor 5, is a cell surface receptor primarily found on immune cells, including T cells and macrophages. It acts as a co-receptor for HIV, facilitating viral entry and infection. By inhibiting the CCR5 receptor, antagonists prevent HIV from binding to and infecting host cells, thereby reducing viral replication and disease progression.
The development of CCR5 antagonists has revolutionized the treatment of HIV/AIDS. One well-known CCR5 antagonist is maraviroc, which has been approved by regulatory authorities for the treatment of HIV infection. Maraviroc specifically binds to the CCR5 receptor, blocking the interaction between HIV and the receptor.
CCR5 antagonists offer several advantages in HIV therapy, such as reduced side effects compared to traditional antiretroviral drugs. They are typically well-tolerated and have shown efficacy in both treatment-naive and treatment-experienced patients. Additionally, CCR5 antagonists may have potential applications in other diseases, including certain inflammatory conditions and cancers.
In conclusion, CCR5 antagonists are a promising class of pharmaceutical APIs that target the CCR5 receptor. Their ability to inhibit HIV entry into host cells has made them a valuable addition to the arsenal of antiretroviral therapies. Ongoing research aims to further explore their potential applications in various disease areas.
Name | CAS number |
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Maraviroc | 376348-65-1 |