Opioid peptide
Opioid Peptide
Opioid peptides are short sequences of amino acids that bind to opioid receptors in the brain; the term usually refers to endogenous peptides (those produced within the body). Pronounced as /ˈoʊpiɔɪd ˈpeɪptaɪd/.
Etymology
The term "opioid" originated in the 1950s. It combines "opium" + "-oid" meaning 'resembling' in form. "Peptide" is a term derived from the Greek word "πεπτός" (peptos), meaning "digested" or "broken down".
Types of Opioid Peptides
There are three well-known families of opioid peptides produced by the body: endorphins, enkephalins, and dynorphins.
- Endorphins are peptides that function as neurotransmitters. They are produced by the pituitary gland and the hypothalamus during exercise, excitement, pain, and sexual activity.
- Enkephalins are pentapeptides involved in regulating nociception in the body. The enkephalins are termed endogenous ligands, as they are internally derived and bind to the body's opioid receptors.
- Dynorphins are a class of peptides that arise from the precursor protein prodynorphin. When they bind to receptors in the spinal cord, they may result in feelings of pain or loss.
Function
Opioid peptides work by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, spinal cord, and other areas of the body. They are involved in a wide range of bodily functions, from pain regulation to responses to stress and emotional states.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Opioid peptide
- Wikipedia's article - Opioid peptide
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