Cutamesine dihydrochloride is a selective σ1 receptor agonist (IC50: 17.4 nM). It shows selectivity for σ1 over σ2 receptors, and inhibits angiotensin II-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy in vitro and attenuates myocardial hypertrophy in vivo. In a rat model of experimental stroke, it enhances brain plasticity and sensorimotor function.(In Vitro):The sigma receptor might be involved in several diseases in the central nervous system. Cutamesine, a potent σ1receptor agonist, has 103-fold higher affinity for σ1 (IC50=17.4 nM) than σ2 (IC50=1,784 nM) sites in guinea pig brain membranes. Cutamesine is 14-fold selective for σ1 (Ki=4.6 nM) over σ2 (Ki=63.1 nM) sites in guinea pig brain homogenates. Cutamesine protects motor neuron NSC34 cells against superoxide dismutase 1 and serum free neurotoxicity. It upregulates the phosphorylation levels of Akt and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2. Cutamesine reduces the activation of the MAPK/ERK pathway and down-regulated the ionotropic glutamate receptor, GluR1.(In Vivo):Cutamesine extends the survival time in the SOD1G93A mice.