7-Benzylidenenaltrexone
| 7-Benzylidenenaltrexone.svg | |
7-Benzylidenenaltrexone (BNTX) is a selective opioid receptor antagonist, specifically targeting the delta opioid receptor (DOR). It is a derivative of naltrexone, a well-known opioid antagonist used in the treatment of opioid addiction and alcohol dependence.
Pharmacology[edit | edit source]
7-Benzylidenenaltrexone acts by binding to the delta opioid receptors in the central nervous system, thereby inhibiting the effects of endogenous opioids such as enkephalins. Unlike non-selective opioid antagonists, BNTX does not significantly affect the mu opioid receptor (MOR) or the kappa opioid receptor (KOR), making it a valuable tool in research to study the specific roles of delta receptors in pain modulation, mood regulation, and other physiological processes.
Research Applications[edit | edit source]
BNTX is primarily used in scientific research to explore the function of delta opioid receptors. Studies have shown that delta receptors are involved in modulating analgesia, mood, and neuroprotection. By selectively blocking these receptors, researchers can better understand their role in various conditions, including chronic pain, depression, and neurodegenerative diseases.
Chemical Structure[edit | edit source]
The chemical structure of 7-Benzylidenenaltrexone is characterized by the presence of a benzylidene group attached to the naltrexone backbone. This modification enhances its selectivity for the delta opioid receptor. The compound has a molecular formula of C26H25NO4 and a molecular weight of 415.48 g/mol.
Synthesis[edit | edit source]
The synthesis of 7-Benzylidenenaltrexone involves the chemical modification of naltrexone. The process typically includes the introduction of a benzylidene moiety at the 7-position of the naltrexone molecule. This synthetic route is crucial for producing the compound in sufficient quantities for research purposes.
Potential Therapeutic Uses[edit | edit source]
While primarily a research tool, the selective antagonism of delta opioid receptors by BNTX suggests potential therapeutic applications. These may include the treatment of conditions where delta receptor activity is implicated, such as certain types of pain and mood disorders. However, further research is needed to explore these possibilities.
Safety and Toxicology[edit | edit source]
As with many research chemicals, the safety profile of 7-Benzylidenenaltrexone is not fully established. It is used under controlled laboratory conditions, and its effects in humans are not well-documented. Researchers must exercise caution and adhere to safety protocols when handling this compound.
Also see[edit | edit source]
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
|
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
| Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Translate this page: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
தமிழ்,
తెలుగు,
Urdu,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
বাংলা
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
Greek,
português do Brasil,
polski,
română,
русский,
Nederlands,
norsk,
svenska,
suomi,
Italian
Middle Eastern & African
عربى,
Turkish,
Persian,
Hebrew,
Afrikaans,
isiZulu,
Kiswahili,
Other
Bulgarian,
Hungarian,
Czech,
Swedish,
മലയാളം,
मराठी,
ਪੰਜਾਬੀ,
ગુજરાતી,
Portuguese,
Ukrainian
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
