POMC-derived endogenous opioid beginning with the classic YGGFM motif.
Also known as: β-endorphin
Part of the Neuropeptides & signaling cluster
Overview
Beta-endorphin is a 31-amino-acid endogenous opioid peptide cleaved from the proopiomelanocortin (POMC) precursor. It is a foundational molecule in pain, stress, and reward neuroscience research.
Source & context
Biological / chemical source: Pituitary; derived from proopiomelanocortin (POMC)
Primary research or clinical context: Pain, reward and stress neuroscience research
From POMC precursor
Beta-endorphin is one of several peptides processed from POMC, alongside ACTH and MSH peptides. Its N-terminal Tyr-Gly-Gly-Phe-Met sequence is the same opioid motif found in met-enkephalin.
Receptor context
Beta-endorphin acts mainly at mu-opioid receptors within endogenous analgesia and reward circuits. Educational coverage here concerns this physiology and makes no claim about therapeutic use.
Sequence
One-letter sequence commonly cited for Beta-endorphin (educational; isoforms and modifications may differ):
YGGFMTSEKSQTPLVTLFKNAIIKNAYKKGE
Residues plotted ~100° apart around an α-helix — clustering of one color reveals an amphipathic face.
FAQ about Beta-endorphin
What is Beta-endorphin?+
Beta-endorphin is a 31-amino-acid endogenous opioid peptide cleaved from the proopiomelanocortin (POMC) precursor. It is a foundational molecule in pain, stress, and reward neuroscience research.
Is Beta-endorphin an approved medicine?+
Beta-endorphin is discussed here as a research / educational topic. Pain, reward and stress neuroscience research. This is not medical advice.
What is the typical length of Beta-endorphin?+
Beta-endorphin is commonly described as approximately 31 amino acids (Neuropeptide).