mu-type opioid receptor binding

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

Binding to a mu-type opioid receptor. [GOC:mah, GOC:nln, GOC:sl]

The mu-type opioid receptor (MOR) is a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) that binds to opioid ligands, such as morphine and heroin. When opioids bind to the MOR, they activate a signaling cascade that ultimately leads to the inhibition of adenylyl cyclase activity. This inhibition of adenylyl cyclase reduces the production of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), a second messenger molecule that plays a role in a variety of cellular processes, including neuronal excitability, synaptic plasticity, and pain perception. The reduction in cAMP levels leads to the activation of a number of downstream signaling pathways, including the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway and the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) pathway. These pathways are involved in a variety of cellular processes, including cell growth, survival, and differentiation. The activation of these pathways by MOR signaling contributes to the analgesic, euphoric, and addictive effects of opioids. In addition to its role in signal transduction, the MOR also plays a role in regulating ion channel activity. MOR activation can lead to the opening of potassium channels and the closing of calcium channels, which contributes to the hyperpolarization of neurons and the reduction in neuronal excitability. This effect contributes to the analgesic effects of opioids by reducing pain signals transmitted to the brain.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (1)