Opioid receptors outside the brain targeted in rats; new direction for painkillers

(Cell Press) Opioid abuse is a growing public health crisis, affecting up to 36 million people worldwide. Many of these individuals first get hooked on prescription painkillers that target mu opioid receptors in the brain. A study in rats published Aug. 25 in Cell Reports suggests that a different approach that targets delta opioid receptors on sensory neurons in peripheral tissues might avoid the side effects and high abuse potential of currently available pain relievers.

from EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science http://ift.tt/2bJGSmO