The opioid receptor delta 1 (OPRD1), also known as δ-opioid receptor (DOR), is a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) that binds endogenous opioid peptides like enkephalins and exogenous opioids. It plays a key role in modulating pain perception, emotional responses, and reward pathways. OPRD1 is widely expressed in the central nervous system (e.g., cortex, basal ganglia, and limbic regions) and peripheral tissues, influencing neurophysiological processes such as analgesia, mood regulation, and addiction.
OPRD1 antibodies are essential tools for studying receptor localization, expression levels, and signaling mechanisms in both normal and disease states. These antibodies are commonly used in techniques like immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, and flow cytometry to investigate OPRD1 distribution in tissues or its dysregulation in conditions like chronic pain, depression, or substance use disorders. Researchers also utilize OPRD1 antibodies to explore receptor interactions with ligands or downstream effectors, aiding drug discovery for pain management or neurological therapies.
Despite therapeutic potential, targeting OPRD1 remains challenging due to its complex signaling crosstalk with other opioid receptors (e.g., μ- and κ-opioid receptors) and side effect profiles. Current studies focus on biased agonism and receptor dimerization to develop safer analgesics or neuropsychiatric treatments. OPRD1 antibodies thus serve as critical reagents for unraveling its multifaceted biology and translational applications.