Abstract

ENDORPHINS: ENDOGENOUS OPIOID IN HUMAN CELLS

Dr. Archana Sharma*, Deepali Verma

ABSTRACT

Endorphins are endogenous opioids released from the pituitary gland that are believed to mediate analgesia, induce euphoria, and play a role in the reward system in the brain. It has been suggested that endorphins are responsible for creating the relaxed psychological state known as “runner’s high.” The relationship between vigorous exercise and blood plasma endorphin levels have produced conflicting results. Some indicate a significant increase of endorphins during or after exercise while others do not. Inconsistent methods and experimental techniques have made it difficult to determine a relationship between exercise and endorphin elevations. Research has shown that opioidergic activity plays a role in addictions by mediating the development of reinforcing qualities of certain activities and substances. A newly established condition known as exercise dependence defines exercise as an addiction, characterized by a compulsion to exercise excessively even when the consequences are harmful to an individual’s health, family relationships, and personal wealth. Various surveys and questionnaires have been validated for determining the level of an individual’s dependence on and need for exercise. A clear relationship between vigorous exercise and increased endorphin levels, causes of exercise dependence can be more concretely determined. Exercise dependence is not currently recognized by the DSM-IV[Diagnostic statistical manual of mental disorder}, but its presence in certain human behaviours (similar to those of alcoholics and drug addicts) indicate that it should be precisely defined.

Keywords: Endorphins, DSM-IV[Diagnostic, endogenous opioids.