Characteristics of TRK-820
TRK-820 is a novel selective κ(kappa) opioid receptor agonist,
with a different mechanism from existing antipruritic drugs such
as antihistamine. The drug is thought to suppress the pruritus
mediated by the opioid-related mechanism and hence is expected
to be effective in treating itching that is resistant to existing
treatments such as antihistamine drugs. Based on the currently
available results of clinical data, the compound is expected to
make significant contributions to improve the quality of life
of patients on hemodialysis.
Opioid receptors
Receptors are on the surface of a cell membrane. When receptors
bind to medical compounds, it triggers biological reactions. There
are various types of receptors in the human body. Specific compounds
bind only to specific receptors. The pharmacological action of
substances depends on its receptors. Opioids are one such physiologically
active substance and/or medical compounds that combines with specific
receptors and triggers reactions, and its receptors are known
as opioid receptors. Initially, it was thought that there was
only one type of opioid receptor but advanced studies later uncovered
three types of opioid receptors: μ (mu), δ(delta)
and κ(kappa).
Agonists
Drugs and/or compounds that target receptors are classified as
agonists or antagonists. Agonist drugs and/or compounds activate,
or stimulate, their receptors, triggering a response that increases
or decreases the cell's activity.
