dynorphin

biochemistry

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Last updated

June 25, 2026

Quick Summary

Dynorphin is one of several naturally occurring opiate proteins found in the brain that have pain-relieving properties. Discovered in the 1970s, dynorphin is classified alongside enkephalins and beta-endorphin as an endorphin. These substances are distributed throughout the nervous system and play a role in regulating pain, with potential connections to appetite control, hormone release, and pleasure centers in the brain. Understanding endorphins and their receptors has implications for treating chronic pain and opiate addiction. Opioids, a broader class of drugs that includes natural and synthetic compounds, also act on opioid receptors in the brain to relieve pain and produce euphoria, but they carry a high risk of addiction.12

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endorphin
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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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