Morphine Makers

Researchers have discovered that mammals may have the biochemical machinery to produce their own morphine.

by

April 27, 2010

Researchers have discovered that mammals may have the biochemical machinery to produce their own morphine. Scientists found traces of morphine in the urine of mice after injecting chemical precursors of the drug. Mammals have specialized receptors in the brain that respond to morphine, and scientists had long believed that animals had a way to naturally synthesize the addictive pain reliever.

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