New topics in vasopressin receptors and approach to novel drugs: Involvement of vasopressin V1a and V1b receptors in nociceptive responses and morphine-induced effects

Abstract

Arginine vasopressin (AVP) receptors have been classified into V1a, V1b, and V2 subtypes. Recent studies have demonstrated the involvement of AVP in anti-nociception and in morphine-induced anti-nociception. However, the roles of individual AVP-receptor subtypes have not been fully elucidated. Here, we have summarized the role of V1-receptor subtypes in behavioral responses to noxious stimuli and to morphine. In this review, we focus on studies using mice lacking the V1a receptor (V1a-/- mice) and the V1b receptor (V1b -/- mice). © 2009 The Japanese Pharmacological Society.