Epac signaling protein ligands as tools for studying their biological activity and creating new original drugs

Abstract

The review discusses modern views about the structure and functions of Epac proteins (exchange proteins directly activated by cyclic adenosine monophosphate). The involvement of Epac proteins both in the regulation of the physiological functions of the body and in the initiation of various pathological processes allows to consider them as a fundamentally new biological target for creating original, highly effective drugs. Information on existing Epac protein agonists and antagonists was collected, and the influence of Epac ligands structure on the values of their affinity and selectivity was analyzed. Presumptive mechanisms of the interaction of ligands with Epac proteins are presented.