(biochemistry) Any of a group of pentapeptide endorphins that have opiate-like effects
enkephalin
Definition, parts of speech, synonyms, and sentence examples for enkephalin.
Editorial note
Emotional tears, for instance, have been found to contain protein-based hormones including the neurotransmitter leucine enkephalin, a natural painkiller that is released when the body is under stress.
Quick take
(biochemistry) Any of a group of pentapeptide endorphins that have opiate-like effects
Meaning at a glance
The clearest senses and uses of enkephalin gathered in one view.
Definitions
Core meanings and parts of speech for enkephalin.
noun
(biochemistry) Any of a group of pentapeptide endorphins that have opiate-like effects
Example sentences
Emotional tears, for instance, have been found to contain protein-based hormones including the neurotransmitter leucine enkephalin, a natural painkiller that is released when the body is under stress.
The other chemical found in emotional tears is leucine-enkephalin, an endorphin that reduces pain and works to improve mood.
If you've not read of the effects of naltrexone on [Met5]-enkephalin (OGF - opiod growth factor) it's worth doing so.
Morphine and fentanyl bind to μ-opioid receptors, just like what naturally binds there (endorphins and enkephalin).
The whole topic of OGF/Met-enkephalin is a fascinating one.
There is no "dopamine system", certainly no more than there is an "enkephalin system" or a "glycine system".
> but "ridding toxins" etc is classic > bullshit That's exceptionally context dependant, and in this one: > First is a protein called prolactin > Adrenocorticotropic hormones are also common > leucine-enkephalin You've made the wrong call.
Quote examples
There is no "dopamine system", certainly no more than there is an "enkephalin system" or a "glycine system".
> but "ridding toxins" etc is classic > bullshit That's exceptionally context dependant, and in this one: > First is a protein called prolactin > Adrenocorticotropic hormones are also common > leucine-enkephalin You've made the wrong call.
Frequently asked questions
Short answers drawn from the clearest meanings and examples for this word.
How do you use enkephalin in a sentence?
Emotional tears, for instance, have been found to contain protein-based hormones including the neurotransmitter leucine enkephalin, a natural painkiller that is released when the body is under stress.
What does enkephalin mean?
(biochemistry) Any of a group of pentapeptide endorphins that have opiate-like effects
What part of speech is enkephalin?
enkephalin is commonly used as noun.