Mas-related gene X2 receptor antagonists

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the largest group of membrane receptor proteins and represent the most successful targets of drug therapy. The MRGPRX (mas-related G protein-coupled receptor X) subfamily is only expressed in primates including humans and belongs to the group of orphan receptors, for which the cognate agonists are unknown. The MRGX2 receptor subtype exhibits unique features that distinguish it from other GPCRs. It is involved in mast cell degranulation, nociception and itching, and represents a fundamentally new drug target. Relating thereto, the development of potent and selective MRGPRX2 receptor antagonists is a basic need for the design of anti-nociceptive or anti-pruritic drugs or for the prevention or treatment of other diseases like inflammatory diseases, non-allergic hypersensitivity reactions, fibrosis (lung, liver etc.) or neuropathic pain. A German university offers an invention that relates to a method for preventing or treating a disease or disorder that is associated with the MRGX2 receptor. The technology embodies potent and selective MRGX2 receptor antagonists, including G protein-biased antagonists, that may especially be used for treating pain conditions, such as neuropathic or chronic pain and itch, and reactions, e.g. of the skin, in which mast cells are involved. Many related illnesses may be included, e.g. stress-associated syndromes or asthma, urticaria, skin inflammation, dry skin, psoriasis etc. Given the newly elucidated role of this receptor in chronic urticaria and pseudoallergic reactions, the antagonists have a high potential to be used for target validation, for preclinical studies, and for their clinical development of novel drugs. Industrial partners, interested in developing new drugs are sought for license agreements.