μ-opioid receptor

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Introduction

The μ-opioid receptors are primarily sensitive to opioids and enkephalins. Μ-opioid receptors are not classic cannabinoid receptors but their activity is modulated by cannabinoids. Since cannabinoids have a physiological effect on μ-opioid receptors they are effectively cannabinoid receptors.

IUPHAR entry

Wikipedia Entry

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Diseases

Phytocannabinoids

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Literature Discussion

Δ9THC  

References:

Pertwee, R.G., Howlett, A.C., Abood, M.E., Alexander, S.P.H., Di Marzo, V., Elphick, M.R., Greasley, P.J., Hansen, H.S., Kunos, G., Mackie, K., et al. (2010). International Union of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology. LXXIX. cannabinoid receptors and their ligands: beyond CB₁ and CB₂. Pharmacol. Rev. 62, 588–631.

Distribution Summary

The μ-receptors exist mostly presynaptically in the periaqueductal gray region, and in the superficial dorsal horn of the spinal cord (specifically the substantia gelatinosa of Rolando). Other areas where μ-receptors have been located include the external plexiform layer of the olfactory bulb, the nucleus accumbens, in several layers of the cerebral cortex and in some of the nuclei of the amygdala, as well as the nucleus of the solitary tract. μ receptors are also found in the intestinal tract.