Naturally occurring Endogenous compounds in mammals that naturally act like morphine in the opioid pathway include endorphins, enkephalins, and dynorphins. They are often referred to as endogenous opioids. They bind and activate opioid receptors mimicking the effects of opioid drugs like morphine. Endorphins are a group of endogenous opioid peptides that include beta-endorphin, alpha-endorphin, and gamma-endorphin. They are produced primarily in the pituitary gland and the hypothalamus in response to stress and pain. Endorphins bind to mu-opioid receptors and provide pain relief and a sense of well-being. They are sometimes referred to as "natural painkillers. Enkephalins are a class of endogenous opioid peptides that include met-enkephalin and leu-enkephalin. They are distributed widely in the central nervous system and peripheral tissues. Enkephalins bind to both delta-opioid and mu-opioid receptors and play a role in pain modulation, mood regulation, and other physiological functions. Dynorphins are another group of endogenous opioid peptides, with dynorphin A and dynorphin B being the most well-known. They primarily activate kappa-opioid receptors. Dynorphins are distributed throughout the brain and spinal cord and are involved in pain perception, stress responses, and mood regulation.

Opioid Pain relief Pathway References