Beta-Endorphin
Early humanEndogenous opioid peptide
Research material. Not for human or animal consumption.
Research overview
Beta-endorphin is a 31-amino-acid opioid peptide cut from pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC), the same precursor that yields ACTH and alpha-MSH. It is released from the pituitary into the blood alongside ACTH during stress, and from neurons in the hypothalamus. It acts mainly at mu-opioid receptors and is far more stable than the enkephalins. Research spans pain, stress responses, reward, appetite and immune regulation, and blood or spinal fluid levels have been measured in many neurological and psychiatric conditions.
Limited, exploratory, early phase or small human studies have been identified.
Questions about Beta-Endorphin
PRODUCT QUESTIONSWhat is Beta-Endorphin?
Beta Endorphin is a 31 residue peptide from the C terminal end of pro opiomelanocortin. Its first five residues are methionine enkephalin, followed by a longer tail that stabilises it and increases potency.
What research has been published on Beta-Endorphin?
Studies examine pain control, the stress response alongside ACTH, reward and addiction, and the so called runner's high, where brain imaging studies suggest opioid release during exercise. Many clinical studies measured beta endorphin levels in depression, pain disorders and autism, with inconsistent results.
What batch documentation should accompany Beta-Endorphin?
Beta-Endorphin: Ask for the COA and analytical reports for the batch being quoted. The certificate should state whether the sequence is human or another species, with mass spectrometry, HPLC purity, oxidised methionine reported and peptide content.
How should Beta-Endorphin storage conditions be assessed?
Store Beta Endorphin lyophilised at −20°C and protected from light. Its methionine oxidises easily, so minimise air exposure and keep solutions cold.