The difference between endorphins and dopamine and neurological disorders

Endorphins and dopamine are two different neurotransmitters, with the former primarily associated with pain relief and pleasure, while the latter regulates reward mechanisms and motor function. In neurological disorders, abnormalities in the dopamine system may lead to Parkinson's disease or addictive behavior, while imbalances in endorphins are associated with chronic pain or depression.

1. Functional Differences

Endorphins belong to endogenous opioid substances that produce sedative effects by inhibiting pain signal transmission. They are released after exercise or under stress, bringing a sense of calm satisfaction. Dopamine acts on the brain's reward circuit, driving motivational behavior and pleasurable experiences, such as excitement when achieving goals or receiving unexpected rewards.

2. Mechanism of action

Endorphins mainly bind to μ - opioid receptors, affecting pain processing in the limbic system and spinal cord, and their effects are slow and long-lasting. Dopamine regulates the activity of the prefrontal cortex and basal ganglia through the D1-D5 receptor family, with a rapid but short-lived effect, and is prone to developing tolerance due to repeated stimuli.

3. Related diseases

Dopamine neuron degeneration can lead to tremors and bradykinesia in Parkinson's disease, while overactivity may trigger substance dependence or positive symptoms of schizophrenia. insufficient secretion of endorphins is associated with chronic pain syndromes such as fibromyalgia, and abnormal elevation may occur in patients with binge eating disorder.

4. Metabolic Pathway

Endorphins are produced by the breakdown of precursor protein POMC, with a half-life of about a few minutes, and are easily degraded by peptidases. Dopamine is synthesized from tyrosine through multi-step enzymatic reactions and can be metabolized by monoamine oxidase. Its metabolites are associated with some neurodegenerative diseases.

5. intervention method

Enhances endorphin through aerobic exercise or acupuncture and moxibustion and other non drug means. Clinical use of naloxone can block the excessive effect. Dopamine regulation requires drugs such as levodopa or receptor antagonists, and deep brain stimulation is effective for severe Parkinson's disease. Maintaining regular exercise and mindfulness meditation can help balance two neurotransmitters and avoid system disorders caused by extreme stimuli. When experiencing unexplained pain, movement disorders, or emotional problems, it is recommended to seek medical attention as soon as possible to check neurotransmitter levels. Only after professional evaluation can targeted medication or physical therapy be used. Pay attention to a balanced diet in daily life, ensure the intake of tryptophan and tyrosine, and provide raw materials for neurotransmitter synthesis.