Contains a rare D-amino acid at position 2, a hallmark of proteolytically stable frog-skin opioids.
Part of the Neuropeptides & signaling cluster
Overview
Dermorphin is a naturally occurring opioid heptapeptide from the skin of Phyllomedusa frogs and a highly potent, selective mu-opioid receptor agonist. Its D-alanine at position 2 confers unusual stability. It is a research peptide, not a Health Canada-authorized product, and this page is educational only.
Source & context
Biological / chemical source: Skin secretions of South American frogs of the genus Phyllomedusa
Primary research or clinical context: Naturally occurring peptide and research tool; misused historically in animal sport, where it is prohibited — not a Health Canada-authorized product
The D-amino acid signature
Dermorphin, Tyr-D-Ala-Phe-Gly-Tyr-Pro-Ser-NH2, carries a D-alanine at the second position — an extremely rare feature in vertebrate peptides that resists enzymatic breakdown. This natural D-residue is a classic illustration of how stereochemistry protects a peptide from proteases and is a strategy medicinal chemists deliberately borrow.
Context and misuse
Reported to be many times more potent than morphine at the mu receptor in laboratory assays, dermorphin has been detected as an illicit doping agent in animal racing, where it is banned. This page describes its chemistry and biology for educational purposes only and does not endorse or describe any use in humans or animals.
FAQ about Dermorphin
What is Dermorphin?+
Dermorphin is a naturally occurring opioid heptapeptide from the skin of Phyllomedusa frogs and a highly potent, selective mu-opioid receptor agonist. Its D-alanine at position 2 confers unusual stability. It is a research peptide, not a Health Canada-authorized product, and this page is educational only.
Is Dermorphin an approved medicine?+
Dermorphin is discussed here as a research / educational topic. Naturally occurring peptide and research tool; misused historically in animal sport, where it is prohibited — not a Health Canada-authorized product. This is not medical advice.
What is the typical length of Dermorphin?+
Dermorphin is commonly described as approximately 7 amino acids (Exogenous opioid heptapeptide (frog skin)).