Vol. 7, Issue 3 (2019)
Beta endorphins: The natural opioids
Author(s): Anand Jain, Aditya Mishra, Jyotsana Shakkarpude and Preeti Lakhani
Abstract: Endorphins (endogenous morphine) are endogenous opioid neuro-peptides and peptide hormones in humans and animals. They are produced by the central nervous system and the pituitary gland. The term "endorphins" consists of two parts: endo- and -orphin; intended to mean "a morphine-like substance originating from within the body". The principal function of endorphins is to inhibit the communication of pain signals and produce a feeling of euphoria very similar to that produced by other opioids β-endorphins are the best in pain relief and its production is hereditary, due to this, its production level varies from animal to animal. Endorphins are naturally produced in response to pain but their production can also be triggered by various activities This review aims to focus on how higher concentrations of β-endorphins decreases stress and maintain homeostasis resulting in pain management and are involved in natural reward circuits such as feeding, drinking, sex and maternal behavior.
Pages: 323-332 | 989 Views 279 Downloads
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How to cite this article:
Anand Jain, Aditya Mishra, Jyotsana Shakkarpude, Preeti Lakhani. Beta endorphins: The natural opioids. Int J Chem Stud 2019;7(3):323-332.
