Delta-opioid receptor

Delta-opioid receptor
Identifiers
Symbol	OPRD1
NCBI gene	4985
HGNC	7976
OMIM	165195
RefSeq	NM_000911
UniProt	P41143
Other data
Locus	Chr. 1 p34.3
Search for Structures Swiss-model Domains InterPro

The Delta-opioid receptor (DOR) is a type of opioid receptor that has a distinct role in modulating pain, mood, and stress responses. This receptor is one of the four types of opioid receptors, the others being the mu-opioid receptor, kappa-opioid receptor, and nociceptin receptor. The delta-opioid receptor is encoded by the OPRD1 gene located on chromosome 1 (1p34.3).

Function

The delta-opioid receptor is primarily involved in analgesia, and its activation can lead to pain relief. However, unlike the mu-opioid receptor, the delta-opioid receptor is less likely to promote respiratory depression and constipation, making it a potential target for developing new pain medications with fewer side effects. Additionally, DOR is implicated in mood regulation and has been studied for its potential role in treating mood disorders such as depression.

Ligands

Several endogenous peptides, such as enkephalins, are natural ligands for the delta-opioid receptor. Synthetic ligands, both agonists and antagonists, have also been developed for research and therapeutic purposes. Agonists of the delta-opioid receptor can potentially be used in the treatment of pain and mood disorders, while antagonists might be useful in modulating immune function and hormone release.

Clinical Significance

Research has indicated that delta-opioid receptors might play a role in the development of tolerance to opioids and could be a target for preventing opioid addiction. Furthermore, because of their role in mood regulation, these receptors are being explored as potential targets for antidepressants.

Pharmacology

The pharmacological profile of delta-opioid receptors involves their ability to couple with G-proteins, leading to inhibition of adenylate cyclase, decrease in cAMP levels, and modulation of calcium and potassium channels. This results in a decrease in neuronal excitability and neurotransmitter release, which contributes to their analgesic and mood-altering effects.

See Also

• Opioid
• Opioid epidemic
• Pain management
• Neurotransmitter

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