Novel prostaglandin receptor modulators – Part II: EP receptor modulators; a patent review (2002 – 2012)

Introduction: Prostaglandins and their G-protein–coupled receptors play numerous physiological and pathophysiological roles, especially in inflammation and its resolution. The variety of effects mediated by prostanoids makes prostanoid receptors valuable drug targets and the research on prostaglandin receptor modulators is intensive. The physiological and pathophysiological effects of prostaglandin E2 are especially complex and numerous. The four subtypes of EP receptor have gained a lot of industrial and academic interest, in particular EP2 and EP4 for various indications.Areas covered: Evaluation of the patent activity over the last decade (2002 – 2012) illustrates several potent compounds targeting the distinct prostaglandin E2 receptors. Many novel methods for the use of EP receptor modulators have been developed, in addition to the classical indications for agents modulating the arachidonic acid cascade such as pain and inflammation.Expert opinion: Several EP targeting agents with good potency and se...