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enkephalin

 
Dictionary: en·keph·a·lin   (ĕn-kĕf'ə-lĭn) pronunciation
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n.
Either of two closely related pentapeptides having opiate qualities and occurring in the brain, spinal cord, and other parts of the body.

[Greek enkephalos, in the head (en-, in + kephalē, head) + -IN.]


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Columbia Encyclopedia: enkephalin
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Home > Library > Miscellaneous > Columbia Encyclopedia
enkephalin (ĕnkĕf'əlĭn), one of several naturally occurring morphinelike substances (endorphins) released from nerve endings of the central nervous system and the adrenal medulla. They act as analgesics and sedatives in the body and appear to affect mood and motivation.

Veterinary Dictionary: enkephalin
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Home > Library > Animal Life > Veterinary Dictionary

Either of two naturally occurring pentapeptides (methionine enkephalin and leucine enkephalin) isolated from the brain, which have potent opiate-like effects and probably serve as neurotransmitters. They are classified as endorphins.

 
 

 

Copyrights:

Dictionary. The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2007, 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.  Read more
Columbia Encyclopedia. The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, Sixth Edition Copyright © 2003, Columbia University Press. Licensed from Columbia University Press. All rights reserved. www.cc.columbia.edu/cu/cup/.  Read more
Veterinary Dictionary. Saunders Comprehensive Veterinary Dictionary 3rd Edition. Copyright © 2007 by D.C. Blood, V.P. Studdert and C.C. Gay, Elsevier. All rights reserved.  Read more