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Delta-opioid receptor-mediated neural protection and regeneration

Jiahui Li1,2, Yuan Xu3,4, Ziyu Chao1,2

  • 1Shanghai Key Laboratory of Acupuncture Mechanism and Acupoint Function, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.

Neural Regeneration Research
|September 29, 2025
PubMed

Insights

The delta-opioid receptor plays a crucial role in protecting neurons and promoting neural regeneration. Upregulating its expression or activity offers therapeutic potential for neurological diseases.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • The delta-opioid receptor was traditionally linked to pain regulation.
  • Emerging evidence highlights its significant role in neural protection and regeneration.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review novel findings on delta-opioid receptor-mediated neuroprotection and regeneration.
  • To elucidate the mechanisms underlying these protective and regenerative effects.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on delta-opioid receptor function in neural injury and repair.
  • Analysis of studies investigating neuroprotection across various injury models.
  • Examination of mechanisms involved in acute and prolonged injury scenarios.

Main Results:

  • Delta-opioid receptor upregulation protects neuronal cells against diverse injuries.
  • Specific mechanisms are identified for neuroprotection in acute and prolonged injury.
  • The receptor demonstrates protective effects in ischemic and degenerative brain diseases.

Conclusions:

  • Delta-opioid receptor activation is a promising strategy for neuroprotection and regeneration.
  • Understanding its mechanisms offers potential therapeutic avenues for neurological disorders.
Keywords:
Alzheimer’s diseaseParkinson’s diseaseapoptosisbrain-derived neurotrophic factordelta-opioid receptorhypoxia-ischemiaischemic strokenerve regenerationneuroinflammationneuroprotection

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