Opioid Delta Receptor (DOR)

The opioid delta receptor (DOR), encoded by the OPRD1 gene, is a member of the opioid receptor family and a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR). It is primarily activated by enkephalins and is involved in analgesia, mood regulation, and the reduction of gastrointestinal motility. DOR activation leads to inhibition of neuronal excitability along pain pathways and modulates both acute and chronic pain responses. It couples primarily to Gi/o proteins, leading to inhibition of adenylyl cyclase and modulates ion channels. Unlike other opioid receptors, DOR exhibits sustained antinociceptive effects via prolonged ERK activation from endosomal compartments. Delta-selective agonists are being investigated as novel analgesics with fewer side effects compared to mu-opioid drugs, and for their potential roles in treating mood disorders.

Other names

δ-opioid receptorDOPOPRD1

Activation of Gi/o proteins, inhibition of adenylyl cyclase, modulation of ion channels, ERK/PKC activation via endosomal signaling.