Partial characterization and tissue distribution of the feline mu opiate receptor

Heroin abuse is a common route of acquiring HIV-1 infection. However, the e ffects of opiates on lentivirus disease progression are not well understood . Feline immunodeficiency virus is recognized as a good animal model for HI V-I, but characterization of the opiate receptor system in cats is lacking. Here we report the partial sequencing of the feline Ct opiate receptor (MO R) and demonstrate a homology of 92 and 93% to the published human MOR sequ ences. Additionally. MOR transcripts were detected in the feline brain and tonsil but not in the spleen. Also. specific receptor ligand interactions w ere observed using microphysiometry. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.