Cortagine

This small molecule is a potent and selective agonist of the corticotropin-releasing factor receptor 1 (CRF1), exhibiting an EC50 of 0.18 nM at the rat receptor. It demonstrates anxiolytic and antidepressant effects in vivo, with studies showing that microinfusion into the mouse prefrontal cortex reduces defensive behaviors. This makes it a valuable research tool for investigating stress-related disorders, neuropsychiatric conditions, and central CRF1 receptor function.