The OPRM1 gene: The powerhouse of pain killers
Abstract
Prior research has identified the OPRM1 gene as a factor in genetic dispositions to addiction. This gene is responsible for the production of mu-opioid receptors, which are used to modulate pain in the nervous system. The authors sought to identify the outcomes of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the OPRM1 gene. They found that the homozygous recessive genotype is less common and that this genotype resulted in a SNP that inhibited OPRM1 function. These findings provide a better understanding of how genetics and addiction tend to influence one another.
Primary Faculty Mentor Name
Melissa Pespeni
Status
Undergraduate
Student College
College of Arts and Sciences
Program/Major
Biology
Primary Research Category
Life Sciences
The OPRM1 gene: The powerhouse of pain killers
Prior research has identified the OPRM1 gene as a factor in genetic dispositions to addiction. This gene is responsible for the production of mu-opioid receptors, which are used to modulate pain in the nervous system. The authors sought to identify the outcomes of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the OPRM1 gene. They found that the homozygous recessive genotype is less common and that this genotype resulted in a SNP that inhibited OPRM1 function. These findings provide a better understanding of how genetics and addiction tend to influence one another.
