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European Network for Sigma-1 Receptor as a Therapeutic Opportunity (SIGMA-1 EUROPE) COST Action CA23156

The sigma-1 receptor is a ligand-regulated endoplasmic reticulum chaperone protein that plays a crucial role in neurodegenerative and inflammatory diseases, cancers, and pain disorders. As a promising therapeutic target, it has garnered increasing attention in the scientific and medical communities.

The SIGMA-1 EUROPE network unites researchers and experts across Europe to advance the understanding of sigma-1 receptors physiological and pathological roles, design innovative sigma-1 receptor ligands for biomedical applications, and train young researchers and innovators to explore novel therapeutic opportunities beyond conventional approaches.

Our Mission

The SIGMA-1 EUROPE Action is dedicated to promoting excellence in research and innovation related to sigma-1 receptor physiopathology and therapeutic applications across multiple fields. This initiative fosters interdisciplinary collaboration to drive breakthrough science and technological advancements in medicinal chemistry and pharmaceutical development.

Special emphasis is placed on empowering young researchers from 27 participating countries, as well as innovators from SMEs and pharmaceutical companies. We strive to provide a dynamic and enriching experience for all participants, maximizing their scientific and innovation potential.

Our Principles

The SIGMA-1 EUROPE Action is built on the principles of excellence, openness, and inclusiveness — values that have already strengthened collaborations among network members.

Given the complex history of sigma-1 receptor research, excellence is a fundamental goal, ensuring rigorous scientific inquiry in chemistry, cellular biology, disease modeling, and preclinical pharmacology.

Specific Objectives

To achieve its overarching mission, SIGMA-1 EUROPE focuses on the following objectives:

Research Coordination:

  • Develop innovative sigma-1 receptor-based diagnostics and molecular probes for pharmacology and cellular biology.
  • Establish a strategic consensus for the clinical exploitation of sigma-1 receptor.
  • Disseminate sigma-1 receptor knowledge to the scientific and medical communities.

Capacity Building:

  • Foster active, multidisciplinary collaborations to advance fundamental knowledge, address unresolved scientific questions, and accelerate major discoveries in sigma-1 receptor research for the benefit of European healthcare and society.
  • Create synergies between complementary research groups to effectively evaluate the efficacy and activity of sigma-1 receptor ligands — both alone and in combination — in key pathological indications.

By driving high-impact research and fostering strong collaborations, SIGMA-1 EUROPE aims to redefine the therapeutic potential of the sigma-1 receptor and contribute to groundbreaking advancements in medicine and pharmacology.

Visit also our COST website for more information: https://www.cost.eu/actions/CA23156/