Dermorphin
A 7-amino acid opioid peptide derived from amphibian skin that binds mu-opioid receptors with high affinity, studied for pain management and neuroprotection.
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Research Status
Research compound
For research purposes only. Not approved for human use. Not medical advice.
Research Areas
Side Effects
As a mu-opioid agonist, dermorphin carries risk of respiratory depression, particularly at higher doses. This is a serious concern requiring medical supervision. Monitor respiratory rate and oxygen saturation.
Mu-opioid activation reduces gastrointestinal motility. Manage with increased fluid intake, dietary fiber, and stool softeners if needed.
Common with opioid agonists, particularly during initial exposure. Often resolves with continued use. Antiemetics may be considered.
CNS depression effects typical of mu-opioid agonists. Avoid operating machinery or driving. Usually mild and may diminish with tolerance.
Opioid-induced itching, likely mediated through mu-opioid receptor activation in the spinal cord. Usually self-resolving.
Repeated use of mu-opioid agonists can lead to physical dependence. Abrupt discontinuation may cause withdrawal symptoms including anxiety, muscle aches, and dysphoria. Taper gradually under medical supervision.
Characteristic opioid effect resulting from mu-opioid receptor activation in the oculomotor nucleus. Clinically benign but diagnostically significant.
Mild erythema, swelling, or discomfort at injection site. Rotate injection sites to minimize risk.
Dosing Reference
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dose range | 0.1-1 mcg |
Frequency, timing and route - members only | |
Research disclaimer
Figures drawn from published research literature and community logs. Not clinical recommendations. Consult a qualified professional. Research use only.
Reconstitution Guide
Do not use saline or bacteriostatic saline, use only bacteriostatic water for reconstitution
Do not shake the vial vigorously; gentle swirling prevents peptide degradation
Discard immediately if the solution appears cloudy, discolored, or contains visible particles
Use within 30 days of reconstitution when stored at 2-8°C
Do not freeze the reconstituted solution; freezing may denature the peptide
Use the PeptideVolt reconstitution calculator for your exact concentration
Molecular and Pharmacological Data
| Molecular weight | 988 |
| Sequence | Members only |
Dermorphin is a 7-amino acid peptide that acts as a potent mu-opioid receptor agonist, binding with exceptionally high affinity to mu-opioid receptors in the central and peripheral nervous systems. It was originally isolated from the skin secretions of the Phyllomedusa bicolor frog and has been studied for its analgesic and neuroprotective properties in research models. The peptide's mechanism involves activation of mu-opioid signaling pathways, which modulate pain perception and may provide neuroprotection through downstream cellular mechanisms.
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Recent Research
Dermorphin blocks apneic response to intravenous bolus injection of fentanyl.
Differential opioid receptor expression and biochemical coupling profiles on glia.
The Neurotropic Activity of Novel Dermorphin Analogs Active at Systemic and Noninvasive Administration.
Source: PubMed / NCBI. Updated daily. Articles are listed for research reference only.
Research Citations
4 sources
Erspamer V, Melchiorri P, Falconieri-Erspamer G, et al. (1989). Pharmacological studies of 'sapo' toxins from the frog Phyllomedusa bicolor skin. Toxicon. 27(10):1075-1093. PMID: 2574446
Simmaco M, Mignogna G, Barra D. (1998). Antimicrobial peptides from amphibians. Biochimica et Biophysica Acta. 1788(8):1537-1551. PMID: 9526881
Negri L, Melchiorri P, Lattanzi R. (2000). Pharmacology of amphibian antimicrobial peptides. Current Medicinal Chemistry. 7(11):1127-1144. PMID: 11032966
Erspamer V. (1992). Bioactive peptides of amphibian skin. Cellular and Molecular Life Sciences. 48(5):425-436. PMID: 1576098
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Research Use Only. All content on this page is provided for informational and educational purposes related to scientific research. Dermorphin is not approved for human use by the FDA or any equivalent regulatory body. This is not medical advice. Do not use any substance discussed here for therapeutic, diagnostic, or preventative purposes. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. The Peptide Volt does not endorse the use of any research chemicals. 18+ only.