endorphin
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endorphin
[en-dor´fin]one of a group of opiate-like peptides produced naturally by the body at neural synapses at various points in the central nervous system pathways, where they modulate the transmission of pain perceptions. The term endorphin was coined by combining the words endogenous and morphine. Like morphine, endorphins raise the pain threshold and produce sedation and euphoria; the effects are blocked by naloxone, a narcotic antagonist.
Miller-Keane Encyclopedia and Dictionary of Medicine, Nursing, and Allied Health, Seventh Edition. © 2003 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier, Inc. All rights reserved.
endorphin
(ĕn-dôr′fĭn)n.
Any of a group of peptide hormones that bind to opioid receptors and act as neurotransmitters. Endorphins reduce the sensation of pain and affect emotions.
The American Heritage® Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2007, 2004 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
endorphin
Physiology An endogenous opioid–eg, endorphin, leu-enkephalin, met-enkephalin, dynorphin; each binds to a cognate receptor; endorphins act as neurotransmitters and neuromodulators, they are concentrated in the brain and associated with analgesia. See Enkephalin, Neuropeptide, Neurotransmitter, POMC.McGraw-Hill Concise Dictionary of Modern Medicine. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.
en·dor·phin
(ĕn-dōr'fĭn)A natural substance produced in the brain that binds to opioid receptors, thus dulling the perception of pain; postulated to trigger "exercise high," a state of euphoria and exhilaration during intense exercise.
Medical Dictionary for the Health Professions and Nursing © Farlex 2012
endorphin
a small protein produced in the nervous system of vertebrates exhibiting actions similar to morphine.Collins Dictionary of Biology, 3rd ed. © W. G. Hale, V. A. Saunders, J. P. Margham 2005