Receptor-centric solutions for the opioid epidemic: Making the opioid user impervious to overdose death

This mini-review presents the view that contemporary approaches to stem the tide of opioid overdose deaths are insufficient to make a significant impact. Instead, a focus on the opioid receptor as the ultimate molecular target to directly abolish opioid overdose death is explored. After identifying the key brainstem neurons that control respiration which are inhibited by opioid drugs, genetic techniques targeting the mu opioid receptor are detailed which prevent opioid overdose. This receptor-centric solution for the opioid overdose epidemic can be realized with existing technology and, with sufficient effort, could enter clinical trials within 5 to 10 years.

Automated summary

This mini-review argues that current approaches to addressing opioid overdose deaths are insufficient and proposes a solution centered around targeting the opioid receptor to directly eliminate overdose deaths. By identifying key brainstem neurons controlled by opioid drugs and utilizing genetic techniques, it is possible to prevent opioid overdose. This receptor-focused solution could be implemented with existing technology and potentially undergo clinical trials within 5 to 10 years.