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Deficit in beta-endorphin peptide and tendency to alcohol abuse.

Zalewska-Kaszubska J, Czarnecka E

Department of Pharmacodynamics, Medical University of Lodz, Muszynskiego 1, PL 90-151 Lodz, Poland. jzalewska@pharm.am.lodz.pl

Human and animal studies suggest that there is a correlation between endogenous opioid peptides, especially beta-endorphin, and alcohol abuse. It has been proven that the consumption of alcohol activates the endogenous opioid system. Consumption of alcohol results in an increase in beta-endorphin level in those regions of the human brain, which are associated with a reward system. However, it has also been observed that habitual alcohol consumption leads to a beta-endorphin deficiency. It is a well-documented phenomenon that people with a genetic deficit of beta-endorphin peptide are particularly susceptible to alcoholism. The plasma level of beta-endorphin in subjects genetically at high risk of excessive alcohol consumption shows lower basal activity of this peptide. Its release increases significantly after alcohol consumption. Clinical and laboratory studies confirm that certain genetically determined factors might increase the individual's vulnerability to alcohol abuse.

Published 8 March 2005 in Peptides, 26(4): 701-5.
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