NIH R01 · 2024
Mechanisms and Regulations of kappa Opioid Receptor Signaling
Opiates have been widely prescribed for pain management in the US, with a staggering 142 million prescriptions in 2020 alone. While these drugs effectively relieve pain by interacting with the mu opioid receptor (MOR), their complex pharmacology has led to concerning side effects such as abuse potential, respiratory depression, and addiction risks. In fact, opioid overdose has become a leading cause of death in the US, with more than 100,000 reported deaths in 2021. Consequently, there is a growing need to explore alternative treatments for pain and related conditions. One highly promising therapeutic target is the kappa opioid receptor (KOR), which not only addresses pain but also offers…
From the public funding record at NIH RePORTER. Describes the funded project, not the reviews below.