The production of antibodies which recognize opiate receptors on murine leukocytes

An antibody has been developed which recognizes opiate receptors on cells of the immune system. This antibody blocks specific binding of the radiolabeled opiate receptor ligand, 3H-dihydromorphine, to receptors on murine splenocytes. Additionally, the anti-receptor antibody competes with beta-endorphin, met-enkephalin, and naloxone for the same binding site on the leukocytes. Moreover, the anti-receptor antibody possesses agonist activity similar to beta-endorphin in suppressing cAMP production by lymphocytes. These results suggest the development of an antibody which recognizes classical opiate receptors on cells of the immune system.