μ-opioid receptor agonist heptapeptide
Dermorphin
Amphibian μ- peptide with high MOR potency; research use only, with full class risks.
Primary Mechanism of Action
Clinical / Scientific
Dermorphin is a D-amino-acid-containing heptapeptide that potently activates μ- receptors (Gi/o), inhibiting nociceptive transmission. It is not an approved analgesic; respiratory depression and dependence biology follow MOR agonism.
Pathway Targets
μ-opioid receptor
Scientific explanation
Gi/o agonism in nociceptive circuits.
Pathway Convergence
Clinical / Scientific
Target → pathway → downstream effect → biological consequence. This is a mechanistic map, not a treatment claim.
Receptor to physiology
Target to downstream effect: μ-opioid receptor
Mechanistically Relevant Repurposed & Adjunctive Applications
Research peptide context
PreclinicalMechanistic rationale
Catalogued as a research peptide. Mechanistic statements below describe known or pathway biology and do not establish a licensed therapeutic indication.
Mechanistic Application Matrix
| Biological Target | Mechanism | Potential Relevance | Evidence Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| MOR | Agonism | Nociception | Established mechanism |
Mechanistic Interaction Considerations
Additive CNS/respiratory depression with other opioids, benzodiazepines, and alcohol. This page is not a dosing guide.
In Plain Language
Dermorphin is a frog-derived peptide that strongly turns on the same morphine (mu). That means pain-signal biology — and the same class of serious risks.
Mechanistic information is provided for scientific and educational purposes. Discussion of biological pathways or investigational applications does not establish clinical efficacy or constitute individualized medical advice.