beta-endorphin

chemical compound

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June 22, 2026

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Beta-endorphin is a naturally occurring peptide found in the brain and pituitary gland that has potent pain-relieving properties. Discovered in the 1970s, it is classified as an endogenous opioid, meaning it is produced within the body. Beta-endorphin has a much greater analgesic potency than morphine.123

It is distributed throughout the nervous system, with a significant concentration in the pituitary gland. Beta-endorphin plays a role in regulating pain, and its release is thought to be responsible for the absence of pain in individuals experiencing severe trauma. It is also believed to be connected to pleasure centers in the brain and may contribute to feelings of euphoria, such as the "runner's high". Knowledge of endorphins and their receptors has implications for treating chronic pain and opiate addiction.12

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enkephalin
…related substances known as beta-endorphins were discovered when investigators postulated that since exogenous (produced outside of the human body) opiate substances such as morphine bind to cell surface receptors, there must exist endogenous (produced inside the human body) opiate-like substances that do likewise and therefore have a narcotic action.…
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…related substances known as beta-endorphins were discovered when investigators postulated that since exogenous (produced outside of the human body) opiate substances such as morphine bind to cell surface receptors, there must exist endogenous (produced inside the human body) opiate-like substances that do likewise and therefore have a narcotic action.…
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endorphin
…as endorphins include the enkephalins, beta-endorphin, and dynorphin, which were discovered in the 1970s by Roger Guillemin and other researchers. Endorphins are distributed in characteristic patterns throughout the nervous system, with beta-endorphin found almost entirely in the pituitary gland.
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…as endorphins include the enkephalins, beta-endorphin, and dynorphin, which were discovered in the 1970s by Roger Guillemin and other researchers. Endorphins are distributed in characteristic patterns throughout the nervous system, with beta-endorphin found almost entirely in the pituitary gland.
Read More