What are opioid peptides?
There are a number of neurons that release chemicals in the brain that affect many thousands of neurons, even if these neurons are found at distance apart. Chemicals released by these neurons are called neuromodulators. These chemicals module the activity of neurons containing the receptor molecules that are recognized and binding to them. Opioid peptides are neuromodulators found in the central nervous system and consist of three main classes: beta-endorphins, enkefalins and dynorphins. These opioids activate opioid receptors, which are also goals for opiate drugs such as morphine and heroin. These circuits or paths are activated when the terminal buttons located on presynaptic neurons are released by opioids in the brain, which is bound to opioid receptors that are placed on postsynaptic neurons. This results in stimulatuion of these neurons, causing a number of physiological and behavioral effects, including a reduction in pain sensitivity. Beta-endorphins that are substances similar tomorphine, are synthesized or produced in different areas of the brain. One such area is the hypothalamus, an area involved in temperature regulation, sexual behavior and reaction to pain. When beta-endorfins send signals from the hypothalamus to the paths placed in the brain stem, they inhibit the transmission of feelings in the body in the body and reduce pain just like morphine.
Other behavioral effects include the tendency to continue or persist in constant behavior. For example, when the animal is involved in the specific behavior of a similar kind to fighting, they are released by opioids. Theseopioid peptides ensure that the animal will continue to fight to protect against predators and stop pain.
opioid receptors are not only stimulated by opioids, but can also be activated by chemicals that mimic similar results. The poppy seed seed consists of a group of chemicals called opiates that stimulate certainOpioid receptors. When poppy seed seed smokes or consumed, it is known to inhibit pain and create pleasant effects. Opiatrates mimic the effects that have opioid peptides on the brain by stimulating opioid receptors that cause inhibitory and excitation effects. Inhibitory effects include decreased sensitivity to pain, seating and body temperature and excitation effects are what the individuals treat to continue using opiates such as heroin, often leading to addiction.