User:Nicholsonk1/sandbox

CXCR4 Antagonists

CXCR4 antagonists are substances which block the CXCR4 receptor and prevent it's activation. Blocking the receptor stops the receptor's ligand, CXCL12, from binding which prevents downstream effects. CXCR4 antagonists are especially in important for hindering cancer progression because one of the downstream effects initiated by CXCR4 receptor activation is cell movement which helps the spread of cancer, known as metastasis. The CXCR4 receptor has been targeted by antagonistic substances since being identified as a co-receptor in HIV and assisting the development of cancer. Macrocyclic ligands have been utilised as CXCR4 antagonists.