Met-Enkephalin (ME)

Also known as: Opioid Growth Factor (OGF)

Overview

Met-Enkephalin (ME), also referred to as the Opioid Growth Factor (OGF), is an endogenous pentapeptide that functions as a neurotransmitter and neuromodulator within the central nervous system (CNS). Discovered in 1975, ME activates the μ and δ opioid receptors and plays a role in pain mediation, immune function, and euphoria. Unlike other opioids, ME operates uniquely through the OGF-OGFr axis to regulate cellular growth and has demonstrated potential as an anti-cancer agent and immune modulator.

Key Benefits

• Cancer Therapy: ME's interaction with the OGF-OGFr axis helps regulate cell growth, showing promising therapeutic potential for various cancers, including breast, colon, renal, pancreatic, ovarian, and melanoma.
• Immune Modulation: ME functions as a cytokine, enhancing immune responses at low concentrations and modulating inflammation, making it potentially beneficial for autoimmune conditions such as multiple sclerosis.
• Low-Dose Naltrexone Alternative: ME may serve as an alternative to low-dose naltrexone (LDN) by naturally increasing enkephalins, which contributes to immune balance and potential pain relief.

Mechanism of Action

ME binds to μ and δ opioid receptors in the CNS to modulate neurotransmitter release and cellular interactions. It also interacts with the Opioid Growth Factor receptor (OGFr), specifically regulating cellular growth in both healthy and cancerous cells. Through this pathway, the OGF-OGFr axis has demonstrated anti-proliferative effects in cancer cells, thus offering a targeted approach for cancer therapy.

Research and Applications

Anti-Cancer Properties

The OGF-OGFr axis plays a critical role in regulating tumor growth. Clinical trials have indicated ME may be effective against various cancer types, including hepatoblastoma, breast, colon, renal, pancreatic, and melanoma. ME has shown favorable results in inhibiting cancer cell growth without adversely affecting hematologic or biochemical parameters.

Immune System Support

At low concentrations, ME can boost immune function by modulating cytokine production and enhancing cellular communication. This makes it beneficial for immune-related conditions and suggests its potential in treating autoimmune disorders.

Potential as a Low-Dose Naltrexone Substitute

LDN functions by increasing endogenous levels of enkephalins, which boost immune response and balance pain mediation. ME can potentially be used as an alternative to LDN, given its natural presence in the body and similar immune-modulating effects.

Product Information

• Peptide Type: Pentapeptide
• Primary Actions: Cancer therapy, immune modulation, neurotransmitter
• Structure: Methionine-Enkephalin (Tyr-Gly-Gly-Phe-Met)

Storage: Store frozen until first use; refrigerate at 2°C - 8°C for up to 56 days.