Expression of Mu-Opiate Receptor in Human Epidermis and Keratinocytes

The 1998 study demonstrated that human epidermal keratinocytes expressed μ-opiate receptors at both mRNA and protein levels, with higher expression in the suprabasal layers. Functional assays showed that receptor expression was downregulated by Naloxone and β-endorphin, indicating a functional role in the epidermis. This suggested that μ-opiate receptors could be significant in skin pathology, wound healing, and itch perception, highlighting the interaction between the neural system and skin.