Opiate binding sites and endogenous opioids in Bufo viridis oocytes

Binding sites with high affinity for 3H]naloxone, but not for 3H]morphine and 3H] (D-Ala2, D-Leu5) enkephalin, have been found in membranes of Bufo viridis oocytes. The binding is reversible and saturable. Bound 3H]naloxone is easily displaced both by unlabeled naloxone and bremazocine, much worse by morphine and SKF 10,047; (D-Ala2, D-Leu5) enkephalin and beta-endorphin practically fail to displace 3H]naloxone. Scatchard analysis is consistent with the existence of two classes of binding sites with Kd 15 nM and 10(3) nM. The number of binding sites with high affinity for naloxone is 16 pmol/mg protein of homogenized oocytes which is 20-50-fold higher than in, toad or rat brain. Oocyte extract displaces 3H]naloxone bound with oocytes' membranes and inhibits electrically evoked contractions of the rabbit vas deferens. This inhibition is reversed by naloxone. It is suggested that compounds similar to opiate kappa-agonists exist in oocytes. It cannot be ruled out that they participate via specific receptors in the regulation of oocyte maturation and egg development.