Nociceptin Receptor (OPRL1) Antibody

Background

The nociceptin receptor (OPRL1), also known as the opioid receptor-like 1 receptor (ORL1), is a G protein-coupled receptor activated by nociceptin/orphanin FQ, a neuropeptide structurally related to opioid peptides. Unlike classical opioid receptors, OPRL1 does not produce strong analgesic effects when activated. It couples to Gi/o proteins, inhibiting adenylate cyclase, reducing cAMP levels, and modulating ion channels to regulate neuronal excitability. OPRL1 is widely expressed in the central nervous system (CNS), particularly in the brainstem, spinal cord, and limbic regions, where it regulates pain modulation, stress responses, anxiety, and reward behaviors. Activation of OPRL1 can produce anti-analgesic effects, opposing classical opioid analgesia, and plays a critical role in preventing opioid-induced tolerance and dependence. Dysregulation of OPRL1 is associated with chronic pain, drug addiction, and mood disorders. OPRL1 agonists and antagonists are being explored for treating addiction, anxiety, and chronic pain without the side effects of traditional opioids.