Mafei peptide

Updated: 2026-07-21

Overview

Morphiceptin is a tetrapeptide (Tyr-Pro-Phe-Pro-NH2) first synthesized in 1980 as a derivative of β-casomorphin-1, an opioid peptide found in milk. It exhibits high selectivity for μ-opioid receptors, making it valuable for studying pain pathways and receptor mechanisms. Unlike full opioid agonists, morphiceptin's effects are more localized, reducing systemic side effects in research settings. As a research chemical, it is primarily used in neuroscience and pharmacology laboratories. Its synthetic nature allows for precise dosing in experimental models, particularly in studies investigating analgesia tolerance or receptor binding kinetics. Commercial availability is restricted to qualified institutions due to its controlled substance status in many countries.

Physical and Chemical Properties

Morphiceptin is a white crystalline powder with a molecular weight of 552.63 g/mol. It demonstrates stability in lyophilized form when stored at -20°C but may degrade in solution over time. The peptide is water-soluble, with additional solubility in polar organic solvents like DMSO, facilitating its use in various experimental preparations. Its chemical structure features a tyrosine-proline-phenylalanine-proline sequence with a C-terminal amidation, enhancing receptor binding affinity. The peptide bond configuration contributes to its resistance to enzymatic degradation compared to endogenous opioids, prolonging its activity in vitro. pH stability ranges from 4 to 8, making it compatible with most physiological buffers.

Main Applications

In research settings, morphiceptin serves three primary purposes: as a tool for μ-opioid receptor mapping in brain tissue studies, as a comparator in developing novel analgesics, and in investigating gut-brain axis interactions due to its casomorphin origin. Studies utilize it to examine receptor dimerization and G-protein coupling mechanisms. Recent applications include exploring its potential role in modulating stress responses, with some animal models showing attenuated anxiety-like behaviors at specific doses. However, therapeutic applications remain theoretical due to its narrow receptor profile and potential addiction risks. Pharmaceutical developers use it as a template for designing peripherally-acting opioid compounds with reduced central nervous system penetration.

Safety and Storage

As a Schedule I controlled substance in some jurisdictions, morphiceptin requires secure storage in locked, temperature-controlled environments (-20°C) with access logs. Desiccants should accompany lyophilized powder to prevent hydrolysis. Solutions should be prepared fresh or frozen in aliquots to avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles. Personnel handling the compound must wear nitrile gloves, lab coats, and eye protection. Inhalation risks during weighing necessitate fume hood use. Spills should be neutralized with 70% ethanol and disposed as hazardous waste. Institutional biosafety committee approval is typically required for research protocols involving this peptide due to its psychoactive potential.

B2B Procurement Guide

Legitimate suppliers provide analytical HPLC certificates (≥95% purity), mass spectrometry verification, and controlled substance documentation. Bulk purchases (5-100mg) commonly serve academic labs, while CROs may require gram quantities for high-throughput screening. Lead times average 4-6 weeks for synthesized batches. Due to export controls, international shipments require DEA/FDA licenses in the U.S. or equivalent narcotics permits elsewhere. Some suppliers offer pre-approved logistics solutions. Buyers should verify the supplier's compliance with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) for research chemicals and request stability data. Payment terms often involve upfront full payment for first-time buyers, with wire transfers being the standard method.