Novel compound relieves pain without side effects (IMAGE)

WashU Medicine

Novel compound relieves pain without side effects

Caption

Researchers at WashU Medicine and Stanford University developed a compound that relieves pain in mice but doesn't affect the brain, thereby avoiding mind-altering side effects and abuse potential. The custom-designed molecule, derived from cannabis, may provide an alternative to opioids for treating chronic pain. The compound is illustrated here in cyan, nestled within a protein (green and purple) involved in sensing pain.

Credit

Tasnia Tarana

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