Table of Contents
What is Enkephalin?; Enkephalin Structure
Enkephalin is a peptide neurotransmitter that is produced in the brain and spinal cord. It is involved in the regulation of pain, emotion, and motor function. Enkephalin is structurally similar to endorphins, which are also peptide neurotransmitters.
Working of Enkephalin
ase
Enkephalinase is a peptidase enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of enkephalins to pentapeptides and amino acids. Enkephalinase is found in the brain and is responsible for the degradation of enkephalins. Enkephalins are endogenous opioid peptides that are produced in the brain and are involved in the regulation of pain perception. Enkephalinase cleaves the enkephalin peptide bond at the C-terminus to produce pentapeptides and amino acids. The pentapeptides and amino acids are then transported out of the brain and into the blood stream.
Enkephalin Function in Body
Enkephalins are a group of naturally occurring opioid peptides found in the brain and spinal cord. They are produced by the body in response to injury or stress. Enkephalins work by reducing the perception of pain by blocking the transmission of pain signals from the spinal cord to the brain. They also produce a feeling of euphoria by activating the pleasure centers of the brain.
