Opiate-HIV co-exposure enhances CNS morphological and behavioral deficits.
Such interaction may occur if HIV/HIV-1 Tat alters μ-opioid receptor (MOR) function.
Tat altered morphine/DAMGO-stimulated G-protein activation by the MOR.
Tat expression in vivo enhanced fear and anxiety behaviors without motor changes.
Tat enhanced β-arrestin-2 binding to MOR specifically in amygdala, which may affect fear behavior.