Recently, the existence of a circulating peptide, beta-endorphin (B-EP) with potent analgesic properties has been revealed. Our group has evaluated B-EP plasma levels in several physiological and pathological models. The life span pattern of this newly identified hormone was characterized by a progressive increase during prepuberal development, by stable levels in adults with typical circadian and monthly variations, and by a decrease in aging subjects. Cerebrospinal fluid B-EP contents inversely showed a declining linear trend throughout life, which suggests an independent source of B-EP in this compartment. The concomitant changes in the reproductive system suggested the possible influence of gonads on B-EP plasma levels, as confirmed by decreasing B-EP levels in gonadectomized humans and rats. Headache, which is likely to occur concomitantly with hormonal milieu variations, appeared to be associated with a deficiency in the B-EP system, centrally and peripherally, the lowest values being found in the protracted forms of headache.

Genazzani, A.R., Petraglia, F., Facchini, V., Facchinetti, F. (1983). Circulating beta-endorphin levels at various stages of life: possible connections with migraine pathogenesis. CEPHALALGIA, 3(Supplemento 1), 35-41 [10.1177/03331024830030S104].

Circulating beta-endorphin levels at various stages of life: possible connections with migraine pathogenesis

Petraglia, F.;
1983-01-01

Abstract

Recently, the existence of a circulating peptide, beta-endorphin (B-EP) with potent analgesic properties has been revealed. Our group has evaluated B-EP plasma levels in several physiological and pathological models. The life span pattern of this newly identified hormone was characterized by a progressive increase during prepuberal development, by stable levels in adults with typical circadian and monthly variations, and by a decrease in aging subjects. Cerebrospinal fluid B-EP contents inversely showed a declining linear trend throughout life, which suggests an independent source of B-EP in this compartment. The concomitant changes in the reproductive system suggested the possible influence of gonads on B-EP plasma levels, as confirmed by decreasing B-EP levels in gonadectomized humans and rats. Headache, which is likely to occur concomitantly with hormonal milieu variations, appeared to be associated with a deficiency in the B-EP system, centrally and peripherally, the lowest values being found in the protracted forms of headache.
1983
Genazzani, A.R., Petraglia, F., Facchini, V., Facchinetti, F. (1983). Circulating beta-endorphin levels at various stages of life: possible connections with migraine pathogenesis. CEPHALALGIA, 3(Supplemento 1), 35-41 [10.1177/03331024830030S104].
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Utilizza questo identificativo per citare o creare un link a questo documento: https://hdl.handle.net/11365/32230
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