Enkephalin
Enkephalin
Enkephalin (pronounced: en-KEF-a-lin) is a type of peptide that plays a key role in the body's pain and stress response systems. It is one of the many neurotransmitters in the body, which are chemicals that transmit signals in the nervous system.
Etymology
The term "enkephalin" is derived from the Greek words "enkephalos" meaning "in the head", referring to the fact that these peptides are found in the brain and spinal cord.
Function
Enkephalins bind to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, inhibiting the transmission of pain signals and producing a feeling of well-being. They are part of the body's natural pain relief system and are involved in a variety of physiological functions, including pain perception, response to stress, and regulation of body temperature and food intake.
Related Terms
- Endorphin: A type of peptide that, like enkephalins, binds to opioid receptors and has pain-relieving effects.
- Opioid receptor: A type of protein on the surface of cells that binds to opioids, including enkephalins and endorphins.
- Neurotransmitter: A chemical substance that transmits nerve impulses across a synapse.
- Peptide: A compound consisting of two or more amino acids linked in a chain.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Enkephalin
- Wikipedia's article - Enkephalin
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