Which of the following is the primary mechanism of action for morphine at the cellular level?
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Correct answer: Inhibition of adenylyl cyclase and opening of potassium channels
Opioids bind to G protein-coupled receptors (primarily Mu). This leads to the inhibition of adenylyl cyclase, decreased cAMP, the opening of postsynaptic potassium channels (hyperpolarization), and the closing of presynaptic calcium channels, effectively inhibiting neurotransmitter release.
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