[Des-Tyr1] Leu-Enkephalin Peptide

Background

Enkephalins (ENK)are endogenous opioid peptides that function as neurotransmitters and neuromodulators in the central and peripheral nervous systems. They are derived from precursor proteins such as proenkephalin and act on opioid receptors, particularly the delta-opioid receptor, to modulate pain, stress, mood, and immune responses. Enkephalins are widely distributed in brain regions involved in pain perception, including the spinal cord and limbic system, and are released in response to stress or injury to provide analgesic and anxiolytic effects. Beyond their role in pain modulation, enkephalins regulate gastrointestinal motility, cardiovascular function, and immune activity. Dysregulation of enkephalin levels is associated with chronic pain syndromes, mood disorders, and addiction. Enkephalins are also being investigated for therapeutic use in conditions such as neuropathic pain, where targeting the endogenous opioid system can provide relief without the adverse effects associated with exogenous opioids.