In the acute setting, exogenous opiates inhibit the production of endogenous opiates while in the chronic setting, exogenous opiates inhibit the production of both endogenous opiates and mu-opioid receptors. Opioid medications function by mimicking natural endorphins, competing for receptor binding. Beta-endorphins function through various mechanisms in both the central and peripheral nervous system to relieve pain when bound to their mu-opioid receptors. Beta-LPH is cleaved via enzymes into beta-melanocyte-stimulating hormone and endorphins, amongst other molecule types.īeta-endorphins are proteins that are primarily synthesized by the anterior pituitary gland in response to physiologic stressors such as pain 5). Pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) consists of a 241 amino acid chain which is cleaved by enzyme (prohormone convertases) action into the 93 amino acid single chain polypeptide beta-lipoprotein (beta-LPH). Recent studies have produced evidence suggesting that pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) may also be produced by the immune system 4) and consequently, also provide a base source for endorphin production. The origins of endorphins have been traced to the precursor pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) polypeptide which is synthesized in the pituitary gland. Endorphins have been linked clinically to cases of mental issues including autism, depression, and depersonalization disorder as well as to activities such as laughter and vigorous aerobic exercise 3). Historically, morphine receptors were discovered in the nervous system before the discovery and understanding of endorphins.Įndorphins were discovered to not only display functions as neurotransmitters in the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) but additionally as peptide hormones released into the circulatory system by the pituitary gland 2). Happy, positive people respond better to medical treatments, in general.Endorphins is made up of two descriptive terms, endogenous and morphine, which are opioid neuropeptides which are naturally produced in your body that serve a primary function as an agent blocking the perception of pain and additionally, present in cases of pleasure 1). I'm not saying watching a funny film is going to cure your aunt's cancer, but laughter should be a part of the overall therapy. Since the endorphins are cable of adjusting mood, this is where we should focus more attention.
When patients are able to keep a positive outlook despite their physical conditions, their bodies are better able to fight disease. Speaking from my personal experience working with patients and being around people fighting diseases, I think the role of endorphins in healing is highly underrated. There has been much research done on the affects of beta-endorphin release on disease in the body. Hopefully, reading this article and obtaining a better understanding of the beta-endorphin will convince readers of the importance of exercise in achieving physical, mental and emotional health. As an avid runner, I can assure you that runner's high is a real condition, and it is a great remedy for stress and depression.
I have spent years trying to explain to sedimentary friends why exercise is more than simply a good way to keep your muscles in good condition.
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