Throughout my adult life i have had a fascination in psychopharmacology and phyto chemistry. What started as a mundane fascination with marijuana. Grew to encompass any and all studies concerning nature's profound affects on human phyche. Under no circumstances am i condoning the use of any of the following.
Now quick science lesson for those who are unaware the use of opiates has the following effect on neuro chemistry. Three receptors identified as the most common opiate receptors are identified as mu, delta, and kappa. These three overlap most structures of the brain. Though concentration of each type depending on the system in question ie hypothalamus, brain stem, prefrontal cortex ect. Evolution has hardwired our brains to seek Positive outcomes to trigger these reward systems. Addiction results from the serotonin and dopimine receptors being damaged by the opioid protine.
However its not the effect it has on humans that i find fascinating. It is a rather odd coincidence i noticed. Highlighting three geographically and genetically distant spices . that have somehow evolved a remarkably similar chemical defense. First species in question somewhat a no brainer Papaver somniferum commonly referred to as the poppy. It's historically. Referenced as being used in Sumerian culture as far back as 40000 years ago. Identified as part Ranunculales family another common relative the humble buttercup
Now the least known of the group being waxy monkey tree frog
(Phyllomedusa sauvagii
dermorphin). It's known to produce an alkaloid simular to that found in Papaver somniferum. The peptide in question is known as dermorphin. Now this article is not glorifying drugs or their use. Please if you're suffering from addiction or know someone who is there will be links posted at the end.
Kratom is the final species on my article of intrigue. This may be an endangered species. however despite this its seen a rise in popularity due to its use in calming tea and the recreational market. The kratom plant is classified as a Rubiaceae a common example of a rubiaceae plant being coffee. Geographically it's found in southeastern Asia. And the alkaloid responsible for the nero chemical response in humans is mitragynine.
I am not saying that these substances should be used by anyone. However due to the intoxicating effect there's allot more historical evidence to study. From this i am given greater hope for pharmacology and its future. Perhaps instead of certain treatments being one offs in nature. They're may be as yet to be determined counterparts worldwide. Wether its a simple as asprin derived from (Salicylic Acid). Or as essential and life saving as the treatment for malaria Quinine derived from (Qualaquin). Many pharmaceuticals still require the base organisms to produce the required chemical. Evidence like this makes me optimistic that though some organisms may go extinct. These medical advancements will not also be lost to time.
Ahh I've read before that poppies were made as opioid substitutes. What's fascinating is the other 2. I've never seen opioid substitute texts on those.
It's rare that people show interest in structure similarity like with caffeine and theobromine which have the same functionality and receptors despite being different compounds then there's soy isoflavins which substitute for estrogen, thus why men aren't advised much in eating soy. Though my thoughts are a bit off topic with your article being on opioid receptors and all