beta-endorphin

[bey-tuh-en-dawr-fin, bee-]

noun

1. a potent endorphin released by the anterior pituitary gland in response to pain, trauma, exercise, or other forms of stress.

Word History and Origins

Origin of beta-endorphin¹

First recorded in 1975–80

Example Sentences

Further laboratory studies by the team suggest that β-MSH and beta-endorphin are important in determining hunger and moderating energy use, and their role is independent of the presence of α-MSH.

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Although scientists were able to show that cats exposed to silver vine had an increase "in beta-endorphin levels associated with the u-opioid reward system, which regulates euphoric and rewarding effects in humans," that only implies that certain cats gravitate toward catnip and silver vine because they find it rewarding.

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In fact, levels of beta-endorphin, oxytocin and dopamine, among other markers, increased in both humans and their dogs during caring interactions, demonstrating that time spent together is physiologically beneficial for both species.

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During love, the brain is flooded with an opiate called beta-endorphin.

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“Beta-endorphin is addictive,” Machin says, “so when you’re in love with someone, you are addicted to the release of beta-endorphin you receive when you interact with them. When you’re away from them, you go into a kind of withdrawal. As a consequence you go back and get another hit.”

Read more on The Guardian