Mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinases are a central component in signaling networks in a
multitude of mammalian cell types. This review covers recent advances on specific functions …

Rationale Accumulating evidence indicates that brain kappa-opioid receptors (KORs) and
dynorphin, the endogenous ligand that binds at these receptors, are involved in regulating …

The nucleus accumbens (NAc) and the dynorphinergic system are widely implicated in
motivated behaviors. Prior studies have shown that activation of the dynorphin-kappa opioid …

Social isolation during opioid withdrawal is a major contributor to the current opioid
addiction crisis. We find that sociability deficits during protracted opioid withdrawal in mice …

Comorbidity is a major issue in psychiatry that notably associates with more severe
symptoms, longer illness duration, and higher service utilization. Therefore, identifying key …

The endogenous dynorphin-κ opioid receptor (KOR) system encodes the dysphoric
component of the stress response and controls the risk of depression-like and addiction …

Monoamine, in particular serotonergic neurotransmission has long been recognized as an
important factor in the aetiology of depression. The serotonin transporter (SERT) is the …

Kappa‐opioid receptor (KOR) antagonists are currently being considered for the treatment of
a variety of neuropsychiatric conditions, including depressive, anxiety, and substance abuse …

The dynorphin/kappa opioid receptor (KOR) system is implicated in the “dark side” of
addiction, in which stress exacerbates maladaptive responses to drug and alcohol …

Research studies have defined the important role of endogenous opioids in modulating
stress-associated behavior. The release of β-endorphins in the amygdala in response to …