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Heteromerization Modulates mu Opioid Receptor Functional Properties in vivo.
Mu opioid receptors modulate a large number of physiological functions. They are
in particular involved in the control of pain perception and reward properties. They
are also the primary molecular target of opioid drugs and mediate their beneficial
analgesic effects, euphoric properties as well as negative side effects such as tolerance
and physical dependence. Importantly, mu opioid receptors can physically associate
with another receptor to form a novel entity called heteromer that exhibits specific
ligand binding, signaling, and trafficking properties. As reviewed here, in vivo physical
proximity has now been evidenced for several receptor pairs, subsequent impact of
heteromerization on native mu opioid receptor signaling and trafficking identified and
a link to behavioral changes established. Selective targeting of heteromers as a tool to
modulate mu opioid receptor activity is therefore attracting growing interest and raises
hopes for innovative therapeutic strategies.journal articlereview20182018 11 13importe