The Salimetrics Research Library
Look up current research on
Beta-Endorphin
and related analytes here!
Serum Beta-Endorphin
Beta-endorphin (βE or B-E) is a neuropeptide derived from proopiomelanocortin (POMC). (1,2) It was originally found in the pituitary gland and the hypothalamus, but it is also known to be present in many different tissues and organs. βE is important for its role as a natural pain reliever in the body. In addition, it participates in the regulation of hunger, and it is linked to the production of sex hormones. (1) Pain and stress release βE by activating the HPA axis, releasing CRH from the hypothalamus, which prompts the pituitary to secrete ACTH and βE into the bloodstream. (3,4) The immune system also participates in pain relief by the release of beta-endorphin and other opioid peptides from leucocytes that migrate into inflamed tissues. These peptides bind to opioid receptors on peripheral nerve terminals, counteracting inflammatory pain. (5) More »
References
- Bender, T., Nagy, G., Barna, I., et al. (2007). The effect of physical therapy on beta-endorphin levels. Eur J Appl Physiol, 100(4), 371-82.
- Laurent, V., Jaubert-Miazza, L., Desjardins, R., et al. (2004). Biosynthesis of proopiomelanocortin-derived peptides in prohormone convertase 2 and 7B2 null mice. Endocrinology, 145(2), 519-28.
- Schedlowski, M., Flüge, T., Richter, S., et al. (1995). Β-Endorphin, but not substance-P, is increased by acute stress in humans. Psychoneuroendocrinology, 20(1), 103-10.
- Oltras, C.M., Mora, F., Vives, F. (1987) Beta-endorphin and ACTH in plasma: Effects of physical and psychological stress. Life Sci, 40(17), 1683-86.
- Rittner, H.L., Brack, A., Stein, C. (2008). Pain and the immune system. Brit J Anaesth, 101(1), 40-44.
Beta-Endorphin Overview
| Approved Salivary Collection Devices | Serum-Saliva Correlation | Sensitivity | Sample Test Volume | Recommended Collection Volume | Special Considerations | Related Analytes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| No | 0.17ng/mL | 50 μL | 125 μL* | Plasma/Serum |
*In addition to the volume recommended for each analyte, we recommend collecting an additional 300 μL to allow for liquid handling loss and possible repeat tests (500 µL recommended for TNF-α and IL-1β).
