[Phe1psi(CH2-NH)Gly2]nociceptin-(1-13)-NH2 acts as an agonist of the orphanin FQ/nociceptin receptor in vivo.

The orphanin FQ/nociceptin (OFQ/N) derivative peptide, [Phe1psi(CH2-NH)Gly2] nociceptin-(1-13)-NH2 (Phe(psi)), has been claimed to be both an antagonist and an agonist of the orphan opioid receptor (ORL1) in different in vitro assays. We now report the dose-dependent inhibition of morphine analgesia by Phe(psi) in mice, an effect parallel to that of OFQ/N. Further, the anti-opioid actions of OFQ/N are not blocked by Phe(psi). Thus, Phe(psi) acts as an ORL1 receptor agonist, not an antagonist, in vivo.