(221) μ-Opioid Receptor Binding Potential is Higher among Non-Hispanic Black Compared to Non-Hispanic White Adults

Ethnic group differences in pain perception and prevalence have been well documented. These disparities persist despite controlling for other factors (e.g., sex, socioeconomic status), suggesting differences in endogenous pain modulation. One potential mechanism underlying this disparity might be differences in mu-opioid receptor (MOPR) function, given that MOPRs critically contribute to pain modulation. Previous work demonstrated racial differences in the association between the MOPR gene (OPRM1) and pain perception; however, no study has reported whether differences in MOPR physiology support these genetic findings.

Source: The Journal of Pain - March 21, 2019 Category: Materials Science Authors: J. Letzen, C. Mun, E. Burton, H. Kuwabara, B. Boring, T. Walls, D. Wong, C. Campbell Tags: Systems (Physiology, Anatomy, Animal Models) Source Type: research