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Delta opioid receptor gene expression in lymphocytes
L F Chuang1, T K Chuang, K F Killam
1Department of Medical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of California, Davis 95616.
Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications
|August 15, 1994
Summary
Morphine increases simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) replication by delaying infected cell death. Researchers identified brain-like opioid receptor sequences in SIV-infected cells, suggesting a new mechanism for SIV replication.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Neuroscience
- Virology
Background:
- Previous research indicated morphine stimulates simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) replication in human and monkey cells.
- This stimulation was attributed to delayed lysis of infected cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify opioid receptor sequences in SIV-infected cells.
- To investigate the mechanism by which morphine affects SIV replication.
Main Methods:
- RNA transcript analysis in CEM x174 cells and monkey lymphocytes.
- Gene sequencing of lymphocyte opioid receptors, focusing on the third transmembrane domain and third cytoplasmic loop.
- Comparison of amino acid sequences with known opioid receptors.
Main Results:
- Brain-like opioid receptor sequences were identified in RNA transcripts of both CEM x174 cells and monkey lymphocytes.
- A lymphocyte opioid receptor sequence showed 96% amino acid homology to the brain delta opioid receptor.
- Opioid receptor expression in lymphocytes was constitutive, present in both saline- and morphine-treated monkeys, and after detoxification.
Conclusions:
- Lymphocytes express opioid receptor sequences similar to those found in the brain.
- This constitutive expression suggests a potential mechanism for opioid-induced modulation of SIV replication in lymphocytes.