What is the definition of opioid receptors?
Jun 10, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
Opioid receptors are G protein-coupled receptors located in various organs and tissues, including neurons, immune cells, and the digestive system. These receptors bind to endogenous opioid peptides and exogenous opioid drugs (such as morphine, fentanyl, etc.), promoting intracellular signal transduction and thereby producing a series of physiological and pharmacological effects.
Opioid receptors are G protein-coupled receptors located in various organs and tissues, including neurons, immune cells, and the digestive system. The specific details are as follows:
Opioid receptors bind with endogenous opioid peptides and exogenous opioid drugs (such as morphine, fentanyl, etc.), promoting intracellular signal transduction and thereby producing a series of physiological and pharmacological effects. There are mainly three subtypes of opioid receptors: mu (μ), delta (δ), and kappa (κ), each having distinct distributions and functions across different cell types and tissues. Among them, the μ-opioid receptor is the most widely distributed, present in various organs and tissues including the central nervous system, digestive system, cardiovascular system, and immune cells. Therefore, the μ-opioid receptor is also the primary target for many opioid drugs. When endogenous opioid peptides or exogenous opioid drugs bind to opioid receptors, they modulate neurotransmission between neurons, resulting in effects such as analgesia, sedation, hypnotic action, and respiratory depression. At the same time, activation of opioid receptors may also lead to certain adverse reactions, such as nausea, vomiting, and constipation.
Patients are advised to seek timely medical attention when experiencing discomfort and to undergo standardized treatment under the guidance of a physician, which can facilitate recovery.
