Localization and Regulation of Fluorescently Labeled Delta Opioid Receptor, Expressed in Enteric Neurons of Mice

DOR localizes specifically to submucosal and myenteric neurons, which might account for the ability of DOR agonists to inhibit gastrointestinal secretion and motility. Sustained down-regulation of DOReGFP at the plasma membrane of activated neurons could induce long-lasting tolerance to DOR agonists.