Orphanin FQ (nociceptin, OFQ), a heptadecapeptide peptide, has been designated as an endogenous ligand for the ORL1 receptor. The amino acid sequence of OFQ has homology with other opioid peptides, especially the prodynorphin fragment dynorphin A, suggesting a close evolutionary relationship between the precursors. A diffuse distribution throughout the brain is seen with binding studies and in situ hybridization suggesting an extensive role for OFQ in a multitude of CNS functions. Immunocytochemical localizations in rat spinal cord have demonstrated OFQ abundance in superficial dorsal horn, lateral spinal nucleus and the region dorsal to the central canal. OFQ immunoreactivity was not affected by dorsal rhizotomy, indicating that in spinal cord the peptide is produced by central rather than primary afferent neurons. The localization is supported by its function in processing of nociceptive signals.
Source:Synthetic peptide corresponding to FGGFTGARKSARKLANQ, aa135-151 (rat), aa154-170 (mouse) and aa130-146 (human) nociceptin.
Applications:Suitable for use in ELISA and Antibody Blocking. Other applications not tested.
Recommended Dilution:Optimal dilutions to be determined by the researcher.
Storage and Stability:May be stored at 4°C for short-term only. Aliquot to avoid repeated freezing and thawing. Store at -20°C. Aliquots are stable for 6 months after receipt at -20°C. For maximum recovery of product, centrifuge the original vial after thawing and prior to removing the cap. Further dilutions can be made in assay buffer.
