The Design, Synthesis and Evaluation of Novel δ-Opioid Receptor Allosteric Ligands

This thesis investigated alternative therapeutic targets towards treating chronic pain and depression, two widely prevalent conditions that are inherently linked. Traditional opioids used for treating these conditions have poor side-effect profiles, making them unsuitable for long-term use. We have developed opioid alternatives that work by improving the body’s natural response to pain, reducing the extent of side-effects. Ultimately this study details an effort to improve this alternative drug through different chemistry approaches, further allowing us to understand how the body naturally functions to combat chronic pain and depression.