Yuxi Zhao

Structural characterization of kappa-opioid receptor dimer in complex with two G proteins.

Nature Communications May 29, 2026 Yuxi Zhao, Chanjuan Xu, Yue Wang et al.

The κ-opioid receptor (κOR) represents a promising non-addictive analgesic target due to its critical role in pain and reward pathways. Despite evidence of κOR dimerization, its molecular basis and pharmacological significance remain elusive. Here, we demonstrate stable κOR dimer formation in living cells and present cryo-electron microscopy structures of salvinorin A-bound κOR dimer complexed...