Peptide Association LLC is a for-profit company. We receive compensation from the clinical providers listed on this site. We are not an accrediting body, a licensing board, or a government-affiliated organization. See exactly how we make money.
Dynorphin A
Overview
Dynorphin A is an endogenous opioid peptide of 17 amino acids that preferentially binds to and activates kappa-opioid receptors, though it also has affinity for mu and delta receptors at higher concentrations. It is derived from the precursor protein prodynorphin and plays a complex role in pain modulation, stress responses, and dysphoria.
Mechanism of Action
Unlike mu-opioid agonists, kappa receptor activation can produce analgesia without typical euphoria but may induce aversive psychological effects. Dynorphin also has non-opioid actions at high concentrations, including NMDA receptor modulation.
Research Summary & Key Findings
Dynorphin A has been extensively studied in preclinical models to characterize endogenous pain pathways and kappa-opioid receptor function. Elevated dynorphin levels have been associated with chronic pain states and stress-induced hyperalgesia in animal studies. Clinical development of dynorphin itself as a therapeutic has not advanced due to poor stability, blood-brain barrier penetration challenges, and complex receptor pharmacology.
Clinical Status
Dynorphin A is in the research phase with limited clinical data in humans. Current evidence is primarily derived from preclinical (animal or in vitro) studies.
Administration Routes
References
Primary literature
- PubMed: "Dynorphin A"
Peer-reviewed literature indexed by the National Library of Medicine.
- ClinicalTrials.gov: "Dynorphin A"
Registered interventional and observational studies, including status and phase.
- PubChem: "Dynorphin A"
Chemical structure, molecular properties, and bioactivity data.
Study-level citations for this compound are being verified against the primary sources before publication. The database queries above return the current indexed literature in the meantime.
Related Peptides in Pain
Ziconotide (Prialt)
FDA ApprovedA synthetic 25-amino acid peptide identical to omega-conotoxin MVIIA, a neurotoxin found in the venom of the marine cone...
View detailsDifelikefalin (Korsuva)
FDA ApprovedA selective kappa-opioid receptor (KOR) agonist peptide that does not cross the blood-brain barrier, providing periphera...
View detailsARA-290
In Clinical TrialsA synthetic 11-amino acid peptide derived from the structure of erythropoietin (EPO) that selectively activates the inna...
View detailsPalmitoylethanolamide (PEA)
Research PhaseAn endogenous fatty acid amide belonging to the N-acylethanolamine family, naturally produced by cells in response to ti...
View detailsNo lawful pathway today
Dynorphin A is not FDA-approved and does not currently have a lawful prescription or compounding pathway in the United States, so there is nothing for us to sell you here and no consultation to book. That can change: eight peptides moved back to a lawful pathway in February 2026.
Tell me if the status changes
One email, only if this compound's regulatory standing actually moves. Not a newsletter, not a sales sequence.
Join the Association
Access exclusive peptide protocols, provider resources, and community support.
List Your PracticeDisclaimer: This information is provided for educational and research purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any peptide therapy. The Peptide Association does not endorse or recommend any specific treatment protocol. See our editorial policy for how this content is produced and reviewed.