Endomorphin-1 (Tyr-Pro-Trp-Phe-NH2) and -2 (Tyr-Pro-Phe-Phe-NH2) are endogenous morphine-like substances that bind to the mu opiate receptor with high affinity and selectivity. These natural ligands have been shown to be as effective as morphine at reducing pain. While morphine and previously identified endogenous opiates, such as beta-endorphin and the enkephalins, have been shown to modulate neuroimmune processes, endomorphins' participation in these critical processes has not been described. My research will test the hypothesis that endomorphins are present in neurons that terminate in immunologically relevant sites including those located in peripheral organs such as the spleen, thymus, and lymph nodes as well as in the central nervous system. It is also hypothesized that during immune stress, endomorphin-1 and endomorphin-2 immunoreactivity patterns change in immune organs and in regions of the brain and spinal cord involved in stress and in immunological processes. We will also test the hypothesis that central administration of endomorphins modulates immune function, but produces less immunosuppression than morphine.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)
Type
Predoctoral Individual National Research Service Award (F31)
Project #
5F31DA006040-02
Application #
6378477
Study Section
Human Development Research Subcommittee (NIDA)
Program Officer
Babecki, Beth
Project Start
2001-06-01
Project End
Budget Start
2001-06-01
Budget End
2002-05-31
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
2001
Total Cost
$21,431
Indirect Cost
Name
Tulane University
Department
Internal Medicine/Medicine
Type
Schools of Medicine
DUNS #
City
New Orleans
State
LA
Country
United States
Zip Code
70118