Δ-opioid receptor
Δ-opioid receptor (also known as DOR) is one of the four members of the opioid receptor family, along with the mu-opioid receptor (MOR), kappa-opioid receptor (KOR), and nociceptin receptor (NOP). These receptors are a group of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) that are activated by the body's own endorphins as well as by exogenous compounds, such as morphine and other opioids.
Function[edit | edit source]
The Δ-opioid receptor primarily mediates the effects of the endogenous opioids enkephalins. It is involved in a variety of physiological and pathological processes, including pain modulation, mood regulation, immune response, and neuroprotection.
Structure[edit | edit source]
Like other GPCRs, the Δ-opioid receptor is composed of seven transmembrane domains connected by three extracellular and three intracellular loops. The N-terminus is located extracellularly, while the C-terminus is intracellular.
Ligands[edit | edit source]
Several endogenous and exogenous ligands are known to bind to the Δ-opioid receptor. The endogenous ligands include the enkephalins, while the exogenous ligands include a variety of opioids, such as deltorphins and naltrindole.
Clinical significance[edit | edit source]
The Δ-opioid receptor is a potential target for the treatment of pain, depression, and anxiety disorders. However, the development of selective Δ-opioid receptor agonists has been challenging due to the high homology between the opioid receptors.
See also[edit | edit source]
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