Shorter daylight hours increase opioid receptor signaling in the brown fat of animals.
Mu-opioid receptor (MOR) levels are significantly reduced in the striatum in those with schizophrenia. A lack of MOR system stimulation contributes to negative feelings, such as a lack of motivation and anhedonia, associated with the condition. Increasing MOR levels could help to reduce some of the symptoms of schizophrenia.
Study reveals how the brain's opioid system modulates response to others in pain.
A new study addresses the genetics behind why some people seem to be more resistant to addictions than others.
Using neuroimaging technology, researchers discover lower numbers of opioid receptors in the brain of obese people.
Researchers have identified a subset of neurons which mediate tactile allodynia, a touch evoked pain condition that is resistant to conventional pain medications.
Researchers find the opioid system responds to social rejection, not just physical pain.
Researchers have developed a variant of the Mu opioid receptor which has several advantages for experimentation The variant can be grown in large quantities and is water soluble, allowing for experiments and applications which have previously been challenging.
Researchers have new evidence in rats to explain how it is that chocolate candies can be so completely irresistible. The urge to overeat such deliciously sweet and fatty treats traces to an unexpected part of the brain and its production of a natural, opium-like chemical.
