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Both mu and delta opiate receptors exist on the same neuron
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|November 20, 1981
Summary
Enteric neurons possess both mu and delta opiate receptors. Activation of either receptor type inhibits neuron firing, though delta receptors require higher naloxone concentrations for antagonism.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Gastroenterology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Enteric neurons regulate gastrointestinal function.
- Opiate receptors, including mu and delta types, are present in the nervous system.
- Understanding receptor subtypes in the enteric nervous system is crucial for targeted therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and function of mu and delta opiate receptors on single enteric neurons.
- To determine the effect of activating these receptors on neuronal firing patterns.
- To differentiate between mu and delta receptor activity in the enteric nervous system.
Main Methods:
- Electrophysiological recordings of action potential firing in single enteric neurons.
- Application of selective mu receptor agonists (dihydromorphine, normorphine) and a delta receptor agonist (D-Ala 2-D-Leu 5-enkephalin).
- Antagonism studies using naloxone to distinguish receptor subtypes.
Main Results:
- Both mu and delta opiate receptor agonists inhibited the firing of most tested enteric neurons.
- Enteric neurons express both mu and delta opiate receptors.
- Delta receptors required significantly higher concentrations of naloxone for antagonism compared to mu receptors.
Conclusions:
- Enteric neurons are equipped with functional mu and delta opiate receptors.
- Activation of either mu or delta receptors leads to inhibition of enteric neuronal activity.
- Pharmacological differentiation between mu and delta receptors in the enteric nervous system is possible using naloxone.