Opioid-modulating properties of the neuropeptide FF system

Opioid receptors are involved in the control of pain perception in the central nervous system together with endogenous neuropeptides, termed opioid‐modulating peptides, participating in a homeostatic system. Neuropeptide FF (NPFF) and related peptides possess anti‐opioid properties, the cellular mechanisms of which are still unclear. The purpose of this review is to detail the phenomenon of cross‐talk taking place between opioid and NPFF systems at the in vivo pharmacological level and to propose cellular and molecular models of functioning. A better knowledge of the mechanisms underlying opioid‐modulating properties of NPFF has potential therapeutic interest for the control of opioid functions, notably for alleviating pain and/or for the treatment of opioid abuse. © 2010 International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.