Prab: CSV import

2025-02-18T03:49:58Z

CSV import

← Older revision		Revision as of 03:49, 18 February 2025
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	[[Category:Pain]]		[[Category:Pain]]
	[[Category:Opioids]]		[[Category:Opioids]]
			== Endorphins ==
			<gallery>
			File:Met-enkephalin.png\|Met-enkephalin structure
			File:A_Sailor_exercises._(10676649626).jpg\|A sailor exercising
			File:Cocoa_Spelled_Out_in_Cocoa_Powder.jpg\|Cocoa spelled out in cocoa powder
			</gallery>

Prab at 02:46, 22 June 2023

2023-06-22T02:46:50Z

New page

'''Endorphins''' are endogenous [[neuropeptide]]s, produced within the [[central nervous system]] (CNS) and the pituitary gland, which interact with opioid receptors to induce [[analgesia]], or pain relief<ref>{{Cite journal|url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3104618/|title=Endorphins and Pain Relief|journal=Molecular Pain|date=2011|first=James|last=Stein|volume=7|issue=1|pages=29–42|doi=10.1186/1744-8069-7-29}}</ref>.

== Endorphin Production ==

The term "endorphin" is a portmanteau of "endogenous" and "morphine," signifying morphine-like substances originating from within the body. The production of endorphins is triggered by various stimuli, including stress, fear, pain, and rigorous exercise.

== Endorphin Types and Function ==

There are several types of endorphins, with beta-endorphins being the most potent. Produced in response to pain or stress, beta-endorphins bind to and activate the body's opioid receptors, much like morphine or other opioid pain relievers, but without the risk of addiction or dependence.

== Mechanism of Action ==

The analgesic effect of endorphins is achieved when they bind to the body's opioid receptors, primarily the mu-opioid receptor, thereby inhibiting the transmission of pain signals. They also act to modulate the release of certain neurotransmitters, further influencing the perception of pain<ref>{{Cite journal|url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1795758|title=Endorphins, enkephalins, and their receptor in pain modulation|journal=The Chinese Journal of Physiology|date=1991|first=Hsien-Yu|last=Peng|volume=34|issue=3|pages=119–130}}</ref>.

== Endorphins and Exercise ==

The "runner's high," a feeling of euphoria experienced after prolonged exercise, is often attributed to the release of endorphins. Although the specific mechanisms and implications are still a subject of research, it's generally accepted that endorphins contribute to the improved mood and sensations of wellbeing that often follow vigorous physical activity<ref>{{Cite journal|url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18202591|title=Exercise, endorphins, and the stress response|journal=The Journal of Experimental Biology|date=2008|first=Romain|last=Meeusen|volume=209|issue=5|pages=236–242|doi=10.1242/jeb.01529}}</ref>.

== Clinical Significance ==

A greater understanding of endorphins and their role in pain modulation is crucial for advancing pain management strategies. Harnessing the body's endorphin system could potentially lead to the development of new analgesic drugs that offer the pain-relieving benefits of opioids without the associated risks.

== References ==

<references />
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[[Category:Neuroscience]]
[[Category:Neurochemistry]]
[[Category:Pain]]
[[Category:Opioids]]

Endorphins - Revision history

Prab: CSV import

Prab at 02:46, 22 June 2023