Dermorphin is a naturally occurring opioid heptapeptide isolated from the skin of South American frogs (Phyllomedusa genus). Its exceptional μ-opioid receptor (MOR) potency — 500–1000× greater than morphine — results from its unusual D-alanine residue at position 2, which prevents proteolytic degradation and adopts an optimal MOR binding conformation. Dermorphin is the most potent and selective endogenous MOR agonist known. It is used in opioid receptor pharmacology research as a high-affinity MOR reference ligand, for MOR structure-activity relationship studies, and for comparative opioid potency benchmarking.
Research Applications
μ-Opioid Receptor Pharmacology
500-1000× morphine potency — high-affinity MOR reference ligand
MOR Selectivity Research
Natural D-amino acid containing highly selective MOR agonist
Structure-Activity Relationships
D-Ala²-containing opioid — model for D-amino acid stereochemistry in peptide design
Opioid Potency Benchmarking
Reference standard for comparative MOR agonist potency studies
Antinociception Models
Extreme analgesic potency — low-dose pain pathway research
Dermorphin is a naturally occurring heptapeptide from frog skin with 500–1000× higher μ-opioid receptor (MOR) affinity than morphine. Its D-alanine at position 2 provides proteolytic resistance and optimal MOR binding. It is used as a high-affinity MOR reference ligand and for comparative opioid pharmacology and structure-activity research.
How is Dermorphin reconstituted?
Add 1–2mL bacteriostatic water to the lyophilized vial. Dermorphin dissolves readily as a heptapeptide. Swirl gently to a clear solution. Store at 2–8°C for up to 21 days.
What purity is QSC Dermorphin?
QSC Dermorphin is ≥99% HPLC pure with MS-confirmed heptapeptide identity (MW 802.9 Da) on every batch. COA verifiable at verify.janoshik.com.
Research Use Only: All QSC compounds are sold strictly for laboratory research purposes only. Not for human consumption, veterinary use, or any other application. Researchers are responsible for compliance with local regulations.
QSC Network
Compound reference, COA verification, and regional warehouse information across the QSC network.
