Morphine’s Pain Relief Mechanism Unveiled

Researchers have uncovered how morphine relieves pain by activating a specific group of neurons in the brain, termed the ‘morphine ensemble.’ These neurons, located in the rostral ventromedial medulla (RVM), connect to the spinal cord and inhibit pain signaling. Understanding this pathway could help reduce the severe side effects of morphine, such as addiction and overdose. The findings also provide insights into the differences between pain relief and the euphoric effects of morphine.