Functional opiate receptors in the guinea-pig ileum: their differentiation by means of selective tolerance development

J Pharmacol Exp Ther. 1981 Nov;219(2):547-50.

Abstract

A differentiation of multiple opiate receptors in the electrically stimulated longitudinal muscle-myenteric plexus preparation of the guinea-pig ileum is described employing the technique of tolerance development of selective opiate receptors. Apparently, mu- and kappa-opiate receptors are clearly differentiated in this tissue, since highly tolerant mu-receptors (80-fold) coexist with kappa-receptors of almost normal sensitivity and vice versa. Attempts to demonstrate delta-receptors failed, as there was complete cross-tolerance between mu- and delta-agonists. It is proposed that delta-agonists bring about their action via mu-receptors in this preparation. Although mu- and kappa-receptors have been demonstrated, neither of them appear to represent a uniform population.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Drug Tolerance
  • Electric Stimulation
  • Guinea Pigs
  • Ileum / drug effects
  • In Vitro Techniques
  • Male
  • Muscle Contraction / drug effects
  • Muscle, Smooth / drug effects*
  • Narcotics / pharmacology
  • Receptors, Opioid / classification
  • Receptors, Opioid / drug effects*

Substances

  • Narcotics
  • Receptors, Opioid