Salvinorin A: the "magic mint" hallucinogen finds a molecular target in the kappa opioid receptor.
Trends in pharmacological sciences – March 01, 2003
Source: PubMed
Summary
Salvinorin A stands out as the most potent natural hallucinogen, comparable to synthetic LSD. It uniquely targets the kappa opioid receptor (KOR), making it the only non-nitrogenous KOR selective agonist identified so far. This selectivity highlights KOR as a promising target for developing treatments for disorders like schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease, and bipolar disorder. With its powerful effects, Salvinorin A opens new avenues for therapeutic interventions in conditions marked by altered perception, potentially benefiting millions affected by these serious mental health issues.
Abstract
Salvinorin A, a neoclerodane diterpene, is the most potent naturally occurring hallucinogen known and rivals the synthetic hallucinogen lysergic acid diethylamide in potency. Recently, the molecular target of salvinorin A was identified as the kappa opioid receptor (KOR). Salvinorin A represents the only known non-nitrogenous KOR selective agonist. Based on the selectivity of salvinorin A for the KOR, this receptor represents a potential molecular target for the development of drugs to treat disorders characterized by alterations in perception, including schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease and bipolar disorder.