The μ-opioid receptor: an electrophysiologist's perspective from the sharp end

Morphine, the prototypical opioid analgesic drug, produces its behavioural effects primarily through activation of μ-opioid receptors (MOPrs) expressed in neurones of the central and peripheral nervous systems. This Perspective provides an historical view of how, over the past 40 years, the use of electrophysiological recording techniques has helped to reveal the molecular mechanisms by which acute and chronic activation of MOPr by morphine and other opioid drugs modify neuronal function.