Although protein kinases are proving to be valuable therapeutic targets for various peripheral-tissue disorders, the development of kinase-targeted therapies for central nervous system (CNS) diseases remains a challenge. Here, Chico and colleagues discuss the issues associated with CNS drug discovery, present trends in small-molecule properties associated with blood–brain barrier penetrance and review emerging CNS protein kinase targets and compounds in development.
- Laura K. Chico
- Linda J. Van Eldik
- D. Martin Watterson