Heteromers of μ opioid and dopamine D₁ receptors modulate opioid-induced locomotor sensitization in a dopamine-independent manner.

ABSTRACT:

Background and purpose

Exposure to opiates induces locomotor sensitization in rodents, which has been proposed to correspond to the compulsive drug-seeking behaviour. Numerous studies have demonstrated that locomotor sensitization can occur in a dopamine transmission-independent manner; however, the underlying mechanisms are unclear.

Experimental approach

Co-immunoprecipitation, BRET and cross-antagonism assays were used to demonstrate the existence of receptor heterodimers. Function of heterodimers was evaluated by behavioural studies of locomotor sensitization.

Key results

The dopamine D₁ receptor antagonist SCH23390 antagonized the signalling initiated by stimulation of μ opioid receptors with agonists in transfected cells expressing two receptors and in

SUBMITTER: Tao YM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5554314 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature