Biologically Active Substance
endorphin
en·dor·phin [ en-dawr-fin ]
Subclass of:
Opioid Peptide
Definitions related to endorphins:
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One of several substances made in the body that can relieve pain and give a feeling of well-being. Endorphins are peptides (small proteins) that bind to opioid receptors in the central nervous system. An endorphin is a type of neurotransmitter.NCI Dictionary of Cancer TermsU.S. National Cancer Institute, 2021
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One of the three major groups of endogenous opioid peptides. They are large peptides derived from the PRO-OPIOMELANOCORTIN precursor. The known members of this group are alpha-, beta-, and gamma-endorphin. The term endorphin is also sometimes used to refer to all opioid peptides, but the narrower sense is used here; OPIOID PEPTIDES is used for the broader group.NLM Medical Subject HeadingsU.S. National Library of Medicine, 2021
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Substances in the body that reduce pain and create a feeling of well-being.Harvard Dictionary of Health TermsHarvard Medical Publishing, 2011
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