Effect of potent endomorphin degradation blockers on analgesic and antidepressant-like responses in mice

► In this study, we developed and synthesized a series of endomorphin degradation blockers. ► We demonstrated that the novel inhibitors of EM-degrading enzymes prolong EM analgesic and antidepressant-like effects. ► These inhibitors might become potential candidates for lead compounds in a new therapeutic strategy against pain and mood disorders.