endorphin etymology

Etymology:

The word "endorphin" is derived from two Greek roots:

  • "endo-" (within)
  • "-orphin" (morphine-like)

Meaning:

Endorphins are naturally occurring peptides (short chains of amino acids) that produce pain-relieving and mood-enhancing effects in the body. They are produced in response to pain, stress, or intense exercise.

Origin:

The term "endorphin" was first coined in 1975 by two independent research groups:

  • Hans Kosterlitz and John Hughes at the University of Aberdeen
  • John Lewis and Solomon Snyder at Johns Hopkins University

These researchers discovered that the body produces substances that mimic the effects of morphine, and they named these substances endorphins (within morphine-like).

Key Features of Endorphins:

  • They bind to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord.
  • They have pain-relieving (analgesic) effects.
  • They can produce euphoria and relaxation.
  • They are involved in regulating mood, sleep, and appetite.

Types of Endorphins:

There are several different types of endorphins, including:

  • Beta-endorphin
  • Alpha-endorphin
  • Gamma-endorphin
  • Met-enkephalin
  • Leu-enkephalin

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