Role of dynorphin?

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Dynorphin-producing neurons associated with oxytocin neurons are involved in the negative feedback loop our bodies use to control oxytocin release. What this may mean is that any activity that may trigger a release of oxytocin, at least in some people, will cause behavioral effects that are associated with high levels of dynorphin. Unlike other opioid agonists, dynorphin does not necessarily cause a sense of euphoria. In fact, its binding to the kappa-opioid receptors could actually cause extreme dysphoria. However, the effects of kappa-opioid agonists are not always dysphoric. In fact, experienced drug users/abusers often seem to imply that one has to actually learn how to enjoy some classes of drug, particularly those known for inducing hallucination (which suggests at least some level of interaction with the kappa-opioid system). I suspect that some of the same techniques that drug users employ in preventing the dysphoric effects of some drugs could improve some of the eye contact problems suffered by autists and Aspies, assuming the dynorphin/oxytocin theory holds any water. Dynorphins are also one of the ingredients in inducing the so-called "runner's high." Like any opioid, it may be possible to build up a tolerance to the effects of dynorphin, and this might partially explain the effectiveness of CBT in the treatment of some of the symptoms of autism.

If this is the case, then it may also be that, once having learned to cope with the effects of oxytocin-induced dynorphin, an Aspie could theoretically develop some level of addiction to social interaction, which would be a very peculiar fate for one who has a disorder that is legendarily associated with intense social anxiety. If there are any reports of Aspies suddenly undergoing a conversion from social isolation to excessive, conceivably "annoying" gregariousness, this may lend weight to the hypothesis that oxytocin-induced dynorphin could be responsible for some of the effects of autism, even if his or her efforts at social interaction are inappropriate and/or awkward.

Another curiosity is that dynorphins seem to have positive effects on learning and memory, which may explain some of the giftedness seen in Aspergians. Assuming the hypothesis holds water, in any case.

Are you a biochemist? This would be the start of an interesting thesis paper.

No, I'm just highly interested in this subject matter. I'm actually a psych major in my sophomore year. I've been thinking of switching my major to biochemistry, though. I'm not entirely sure, however, whether this would take me in the direction I want to go in. As an off-topic question, does anyone have any advice for me on this subject?

I've recently dived into a theory on the affects of neuropeptide imbalance and autism. I'm currently recluse, looking for answers. I have experienced a type of "social addiction" like you mentioned. When analysing my experiences (in dating, marriage, night life and work) they all follow a similar pattern. Much like the pattern of a meth or opioid addict. (I have no experience with either) . but what we know about addictions is at some point in time paradoxical things happen. If there is no homeostasis with oxytocin and dynorphin, (its in the wrong places at the wrong times for he wrong reasons) it would explain a lot of our symptoms. I've been a karaoke host, machinist, welder, truck driver and raised livestock and forage, currently applying for disability. My medical school experience happened between the ages of 3 and 7 (I read my mothers college books). So I'm rusty, I only take interest in medicine when I'm burned out and cannot function socially or work. (Haven't been able to sustain self employment either).