Β-endorphin Concentrations Research Articles

Application of multimodal analgesia in video-assisted thoracoscopic lobectomy

Objective To investigate whether the use of flurbiprofen axe combined with B-ultrasound guided paravertebral nerve block in thoracoscopic lobectomy can improve the analgesic effect, inhibit the body's stress response, reduce the dosage and side effects of opioids. To further test whether the results of the study are related to ropivacaine hydrochloride concentration. Methods Sixty patients undergoing thoracoscopic lobectomy were randomly divided into 3 groups(n=20). Control group was given Flurbiprofen axetil 50 mg 30 min before induction and also give same dose 30 min before sewing, low concentration combined group was given 0.375% ropivacaine paravertebral block+Flurbiprofen axetil (in the same way as the control group), high-concentration combination group was given 0.5% ropivacaine paravertebral block+Flurbiprofen axetil (in the same way as the control group). All patients were given to patient-controlled intravenous analgesia(PCIA) after operative. Observing the recovery situation, Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) scores at rest time and during cough after postoperative, analgesia adverse reactions; recording remifentanil dosage and the total number of compressions PCIA after operative, the determination of cortisol (Cor) and β-endorphin (β-EP) concentrations. Results The incidence of restlessness and restlessness scores in the control group were significantly higher than other two groups (P 0.05). Compared with the low-dose group, the NRS score at rest and the time of coughing in the high-dose group were significantly lower at the 24 h after operation (P 0.05). There was no significant difference of the Cor and β-EP concentration in the preoperative and postoperative between the three groups (P>0.05). Compared with the control group, the concentration of Cor and β-EP were significantly low at 6 and 12 hours in the other two groups (P 0.05). There was no significant difference in the preoperative and postoperative Cor and β-EP levels among the three groups (P>0.05). Compared with the control group, the Cor and β-EP levels in the other two groups were significantly low at 6 h and 12 h (P 0.05). The concentration of Cor and β-EP was increased significantly at 6 h and 12 h after surgery in the control group (P<0.05). Conclusions Thoracic paravertebral block with 0.5% ropivacaine combined with flurbiprofen axetil for thoracoscopic lobectomy provides more effective analgesia, prolongs analgesia time, reduces opioid use and side effects, and inhibits body stress response. As a result, thoracic paraveterbral block achieves the purpose of accelerating post-operative rehabilitation of this type of surgery. Key words: Multimodal analgesia; Flurbiprofen Axetil; Ultrasound; Ropivacaine; Thoracoscopic lobectomy

High Mobility Group Box 1/ CD 24 Receptor/β-EP Signaling in "Zusanli" (ST 36) Region Contributes to Electroacupuncture Analgesia in Rats with Neuropathic Pain

To observe the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) on the expression of high mobility group box 1 (HMGB 1) and its receptor CD 24 proteins and β-endorphin (β-EP) content in "Zusanli" (ST 36) region in rats with chronic constriction injury (CCI), so as to explore its mechanisms underlying pain relief. Thirty male Wistar rats were rando-mized into control, CCI model and EA groups (n＝ 10 rats in each). The neuropathic pain model was established by ligature of the left sciatic nerve to induce CCI in the model and EA groups, and sham operation was performed in rats of the control group. Paw with drawal latency (PWL, thermal pain threshold) of the bilateral hind-limbs was detected by using an algesia-detector. Eight days after CCI operation, EA was applied to bilateral "Zusanli" (ST 36) and "Yanglingquan" (GB 34) for 30 min, once daily for 5 days. The acetylated-HMGB 1 expression was determined by immunoprecipitation, and the expression of HMGB 1 and toll like receptor 4 (TLR 4) proteins and CD 24 mRNA were detected using Western blot and fluorescent quantitative real time-PCR, respectively, and the content of β-EP in the acupoint region was assayed by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Anti-CD 24 neutralizing antibody (200 µL, 100 µg/mL) was injected into ST 36 region once daily for 3 days for verifying the involvement of HMGB 1/CD 24 signaling in EA analgesia. Compared with the control group, the bilateral PWL difference values in the other two groups were significantly increased (P<0.05), meaning an occurrence of hyperalgesia after CCI. In comparison with the CCI model group, the hyperalgesia in the EA group was obviously decreased (P<0.05). After CCI, the expression levels of HMGB 1 and TLR 4 proteins were considerably increased compared with those in the control group (P<0.05). After 5-times' EA, the acetylated-HMGB 1, the expression of CD 24 mRNA, and the content of β-EP were notably up-regulated (P<0.05), and there were no obvious changes in the expression levels of HMGB 1 and TLR 4 proteins (P>0.05). After local injection of anti-CD 24 antibody, EA-induced increases of β-EP content and reduction of thermal pain threshold were significantly suppressed (P<0.05). EA of ST 36 and GB 34 can alleviate neuropathic pain in CCI rats, which is associated with its effects in up-regulating β-EP content, and HMGB 1 protein and CD 24 mRNA expression levels in ST 36 region. The activated HMGB 1/CD 24/β-EP signaling contributes to EA-ST 36 induced analgesia.

Warming Needle Moxibustion Relieves Symptoms of Lumbar Disc Herniation Patients and Upregulates Plasma β-endorphin

To analyze the effect of warming needle moxibustion of Jiaji (EX-B 2), Huantiao (GB 30), etc. on lumbago and other symptoms of lumbar disc herniation (LDH) patients and changes of plasma β-endorphin (β-EP) content. A total of 60 LDH patients were equally randomized into warming needle moxibustion group and conventional acupuncture group. Patients of the conventional acupuncture group were treated by puncturing lumbar Jiaji (EX-B 2), Huantiao (GB 30), Weizhong (BL 40), and Yanglingquan (GB 34) with filiform acupuncture needles. Patients of the warming needle moxibustion group were treated by puncturing the same 4 acupoints, and with the acupuncture needle in lumbar EX-B 2 attached an ignited moxa-stick segment. The treatment in both groups lasted for 30 min every time, once every other day for 15 times, with 5 times being a therapeutic course and two days' rest between every two courses. The therapeutic effect was evaluated according to the "Criteria for Evaluating the Therapeutic Effect of Disorders of Traditional Chinese Medicine". The lumbago severity was assessed using visual analogue scale (VAS), and the lumbar functional activity assessed using modified Oswestry dysfunction (in objects-lifting, sitting, standing, walking, sleeping, pain, activity of daily living, social activity, outing, etc.) index (ODI). The plasma β-EP content was assayed using ELISA. After the treatment, of the two 30 cases in the conventional acupuncture and warming needle moxibustion groups, 8 (26.67%) and 12 (40.00%) were under control, 8 (26.67%) and 10 (33.33%) had a marked improvement, 3 (10.00%) and 4 (13.33%) were effective, and 11 (36.66%) and 4 (13.33%) ineffective, with the effective rates being 63.34% and 86.66%, respectively. The effective rate of the warming needle moxibustion was significantly higher than that of the conventional acupuncture (P<0.05). The VAS scores and ODI values of the two groups were gradually decreased along with the prolongation of treatment, and significantly lower in the warming needle moxibustion group than in the acupuncture group at the 1st, 2nd and 3rd course of treatment (P<0.01). The levels of plasma β-EP were gradually increased in the two groups at the 1st, 2nd and 3rd course of treatment, and were obviously higher in the warming needle moxibustion group than in the conventional acupuncture group at each of the 3 courses (P<0.01). No obvious adverse reactions were observed in the two groups. Warming needle moxibustion has a better therapeutic effect in relieving lumbago and lumbar dysfunction, and can up-regulate blood β-EP level.

Plasma Concentration of Norepinephrine, β-endorphin, and Substance P in Lame Dairy Cows.

IntroductionLameness is a painful and debilitating condition that affects dairy cows worldwide. The aim of this study was to determine the plasma concentration of norepinephrine, β-endorphin, and substance P in dairy cows with lameness and different mobility scores (MS).Material and MethodsA total of 100 Friesian and Jersey cows with lameness (parity range: 1–6; weight: 400–500 kg; milk yield: 22–28 L a day, and lactation stage less than 230 days) were selected. Animals were selected and grouped according to MS (MS 0–3; n = 25), and plasma concentration of norepinephrine, substance P, and β-endorphin was measured using ELISA.ResultsCows with MS 3 had higher plasma concentrations of norepinephrine and substance P and lower plasma concentrations of β-endorphins when compared to MS 0 cows.ConclusionVariations in plasma concentration of norepinephrine, substance P, and β-endorphin could be associated with intense pain states in dairy cows with lameness, but are insufficient to differentiate these states from the mildest pain states. Further studies are necessary in order to evaluate the potential use of these biomarkers in the detection of chronic bovine painful conditions.

Is β-endorphin significant in the control of the male sexual response?

It has been assumed that β-endorphin, belonging to the family of opiodergic neuropeptides, might facilitate the inhibition of the male sexual response; however, its role in the control of the penile erectile tissue remains to be elucidated. This study aimed to evaluate in healthy men the course of β-endorphin in the systemic and cavernous blood through different stages of sexual arousal. Thirty-four (34) men were exposed to erotic stimuli to induce penile tumescence and rigidity. Blood was aspirated from the corpus cavernosum and a cubital vein during the penile conditions flaccidity, tumescence, rigidity and detumescence. Plasma levels of β-endorphin were determined by means of radioimmunometric methods. The effects of β-endorphin on isolated human penile erectile tissue were investigated in vitro. β-endorphin did not induce a contractile response of the cavernous tissue or reverse the contraction induced by noradrenaline. β-endorphin decreased in the systemic blood when the penis became tumescent and rigid and increased during detumescence. In the cavernous blood, no alterations in β-endorphin concentrations were observed. The drop in β-endorphin observed during tumescence and rigidity seems likely to reflect the inhibition of the opioidergic input with the beginning of sexual arousal.

Relationships Between Self-Injurious Behaviors, Pain Reactivity, and β-Endorphin in Children and Adolescents With Autism.

Autism and certain associated behaviors including self-injurious behaviors (SIB) and atypical pain reactivity have been hypothesized to result from excessive opioid activity. The objective of this study was to examine the relationships between SIB, pain reactivity, and β-endorphin levels in autism. Study participants were recruited between 2007 and 2012 from day care centers and included 74 children and adolescents diagnosed with autism (according to DSM-IV-TR, ICD-10, and CFTMEA) and intellectual disability. Behavioral pain reactivity and SIB were assessed in 3 observational situations (parents at home, 2 caregivers at day care center, a nurse and child psychiatrist during blood drawing) using validated quantitative and qualitative scales. Plasma β-endorphin concentrations were measured in 57 participants using 2 different immunoassay methods. A high proportion of individuals with autism displayed SIB (50.0% and 70.3% according to parental and caregiver observation, respectively). The most frequent types of SIB were head banging and hand biting. An absence or decrease of overall behavioral pain reactivity was observed in 68.6% and 34.2% of individuals with autism according to parental and caregiver observation, respectively. Those individuals with hyporeactivity to daily life accidental painful stimuli displayed higher rates of self-biting (P < .01, parental evaluation). No significant correlations were observed between β-endorphin level and SIB or pain reactivity assessed in any of the 3 observational situations. The absence of any observed relationships between β-endorphin level and SIB or pain reactivity and the conflicting results of prior opioid studies in autism tend to undermine support for the opioid theory of autism. New perspectives are discussed regarding the relationships found in this study between SIB and hyporeactivity to pain.

Overrated hedonic judgment of odors in patients with schizophrenia.

The odor identification ability and its hedonic judgment in patients with schizophrenia were evaluated in the study. The association between olfactory performance and negative symptoms and β-endorphin concentration was also analyzed. Study groups consisted of 23 patients with negative symptoms (PN) and 25 without predominant negative symptoms (PP) and 21 healthy individuals. The University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test, odor hedonic evaluation, and plasma concentrations of β-endorphin assay in all participants were performed. PN perceived the poorer olfactory identification; nevertheless, they evaluated unpleasant odors as more pleasant than PP and controls. Beta-endorphin concentration was significantly higher among PN than in other study groups. No association was observed between β-endorphin and odors identification and odor hedonic judgment among all study groups. There is potential relationship between increased β-endorphin concentration and severity of negative symptoms. Patients with predominant negative symptoms tend to evaluate odors as significantly more pleasant. Individuals with this subtype of schizophrenia might present specific, altered pattern of smell identification and hedonic judgment. Presumably, β-endorphin has no direct influence on olfactory identification performance and hedonic judgment in schizophrenia.

Effects of the Acupoint Catgut Embedding on Nerve-Endocrine-Immune Network in Dysmenorrhea Rats

To explore the underlying mechanism of acupoint catgut embedding in improving primary dysme-norrhea (PD) in rats based on functional activities of the neuro-endocrine-immune (NEI) network. Forty female rats were equally randomized into blank control, PD model, medication, and acupoint catgut embedding groups. The PD model was established by subcutaneous injection of estradiol benzoate (0.5 mg/rat on the 1st and 10th d, and 0.2 mg/rat from 2nd to 9th d) and oxytocin (2 U/rat, i．p.). Rats of the medication group were treated by intragastric perfusion of fenbid (0.8 mL/rat, 125 mg/100 mL), once daily for 10 days. The catgut embedding was applied to bilateral "Ciliao" (BL 32), "Sanyinjiao" (SP 6) and "Guanyuan" (CV 4) before modeling. The body writhing times in 30 minutes were recorded, plasma β-endorphin(β-EP) content, and prostaglandin E 2 (PGE2) and prostaglandin F 2 α (PGF2α) contents in the uterus tissue were assayed using ELISA, and the activity of natural killer cell (NK cell) in the spleen tissue was detected using 3-(4，5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2，5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) method after isolation and co-culture with K 562 cells. The body writhing times were no-tably more in the model group than in the control group (P<0.01), and obviously fewer in both medication and catgut embedding groups than in the model group (P<0.01). After modeling, the plasma β-EP and uterus PGE2 contents and splenic NK cell activity were significantly decreased (P<0.01), while the uterus PGF2α content was evidently increased in the model group relevant to the control group (P<0.01). Following the treatment, plasma β-EP and uterus PGE2 contents and splenic NK cell activity were considerably up-regulated (P<0.01), and uterus PGF2α content was markedly down-regulated in both medication and acupoint catgut embedding groups (P<0.01), suggesting an involvement of the NEI network in catgut embedding-induced improvement of PD. The therapeutic effect of catgut embedment was markedly superior to that of medication in up-regulating splenic NK cell activity (P<0.01). No significant differences were found between the medication and catgut embedding groups in the body writhing times within 30 min, and in the levels of plasma β-EP and uterus PGE2 and PGF2α (P>0.05). The acupoint catgut embedding has a significant efficacy in relieving PD in rats, which may be related to its effect in up-regulating plasma β-EP, uterus PGE2 contents and splenic NK cell activity and in down-regulating uterus PGF2α level.

The application of combining low dose naloxone with ropivacaine in supraclavicular brachial plexus block

Objective: To observe the effect of low dose naloxone combinewith ropivacaine for supraclavicular brachial plexus block. Methods: Seventy patients undergoing elective upper limb surgery were randomly divided into two groups, ropivacaine group (Group R, n=35) and naloxone group (Group N, n=35). An ultrasound guided technique was used in both two groups.The onset and duration time of sensory and motor blockade, visual analog score(VAS)of 3, 6, 12, 18, 24 h postoperatively, time of first request fordezocine, total amount of dezocine needed, incidence of nausea and vomiting postoperatively(PONV) and patients' satisfaction score for analgesia in 24 h after surgery were measured.At the same time, blood samples were taken before anesthesia, 6 h, 24 h after operation for inspecting the concentration of β-endorphin(β-EP)in plasma. Results: The duration of sensory and motor blockade, time of first request for dezocine in Group N were 736.0(713.5, 836.5), 514.5(491.3, 572.8), 708.5(683.2, 877.0)min, which were all prolonged compared to Group R(522.0(469.5, 606.5), 401.0(370.0, 458.5), 570.0(435.0, 618.5)min)(Z=-6.844, -6.758, -6.700, all P<0.01). The 6, 12, 18 h postoperatively VAS of Group N were 0, 5.0(3.0, 5.8), 5.0(5.0, 6.0)point. Among which the 6, 12 h postoperatively VAS of Group N were lower than that of Group R(1.0(1.0, 3.5), 6.0(6.0, 7.0)point)(Z=-6.596, -4.864, all P<0.01), while the 18 h postoperatively VAS was higher than that of Group R (5.0(4.0, 5.0)point)(Z=-2.603, P<0.01). Total amount of dezocine needed in Group N in 24 h after surgery was 7.5(5.0, 10.0)mg, which was lower than that of Group R(10.0(10.0, 15.0)mg)(Z=-3.449, P<0.01). The incidence of PONV after surgery in Group N was 21.9%, which was lower than that of Group R(45.5%)(χ(2)=4.034, P<0.05). Ptients' satisfaction score for analgesia in 24 h after surgery in Group N was 8.0(7.0, 8.0)point, which was higher than that of Group R(7.0(6.0, 7.0)point)(Z=-3.509, P<0.01). At 6 h postoperatively , the concentration of plasma β-EP in Group N was(113.34±12.36)μg/L, lower than that of Group R((147.14±11.65)μg/L)(t=-7.694, P<0.01). Conclusion: Low dose naloxone combine with ropivacaine for supraclavicular brachial plexus block, prolong the duration of sensory and motor blockade without affecting the onset time.

The effect of training sessions and feeding regimes on neuromodulator role of serotonin, tryptophan, and β-endorphin of horses

Abstract We tested the hypothesis that diet affects equine feeding behavior and that diet composition affects a shift in energy metabolism characterized by a wide range of neuroendocrine changes. We investigated the effects of training sessions on circulating serotonin (5-HT), tryptophan, and β-endorphin (β-EN) concentrations in horses to ascertain whether two different isoenergetic diets would affect this response. Thirty-six Dutch Warmblood horses were randomly distinguished in 18 horses fed with a low-fiber diet (LF) and 18 horses fed with a high-fiber diet (HF). The training session was represented by a medium-heavy exercise and consisted of 21 minutes/day of walk, 36 minutes/day of trot, 15 minutes/day of canter, for a total of 72 minutes/day. At the end of this session, a set exercise test was performed. There was a significant increase in plasma 5-HT ( P P

Featured Article: Serum [Met5]-enkephalin levels are reduced in multiple sclerosis and restored by low-dose naltrexone.

Low-dose naltrexone is a widely used off-label therapeutic prescribed for a variety of immune-related disorders. The mechanism underlying low-dose naltrexone's efficacy for fatigue, Crohn's disease, fibromyalgia, and multiple sclerosis is, in part, intermittent blockade of opioid receptors followed by upregulation of endogenous opioids. Short, intermittent blockade by naltrexone specifically blocks the opioid growth factor receptor resulting in biofeedback events that increase production of the endogenous opioid growth factor (OGF) (chemically termed [Met5]-enkephalin) facilitating interactions between opioid growth factor and opioid growth factor receptor that ultimately, result in inhibited cell proliferation. Preclinical studies have reported that enkephalin levels are deficient in animal models of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, a mouse model of multiple sclerosis. Our hypothesis is that serum enkephalin levels are diminished in humans with multiple sclerosis and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis mice, and that change in serum opioid growth factor levels may serve as a reasonable candidate biomarker for the onset of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis and response to therapy. To address this, we designed a two-part study to measure endogenous opioids in multiple sclerosis patients, and to investigate the temporal pattern of decline in serum enkephalin concentrations in mice with chronic progressive experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis and treated with low-dose naltrexone. For comparison, we investigated whether low-dose naltrexone exposure in normal mice also resulted in altered enkephalin levels. In both animal models, we monitored tactile and heat sensitivity, as well as differential white blood cell counts as indicators of inflammation. Serum [Met5]-enkephalin levels were lower in humans with multiple sclerosis relative to non-multiple sclerosis patients, and low-dose naltrexone restored their levels. In experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis mice, [Met5]-enkephalin levels were depressed prior to the appearance of clinical disease, and were restored with low-dose naltrexone treatment. Low-dose naltrexone therapy had no effect on serum [Met5]-enkephalin or β-endorphin in normal mice. Thus, [Met5]-enkephalin (i.e. opioid growth factor) may be a reasonable candidate biomarker for multiple sclerosis, and may signal new pathways for treatment of autoimmune disorders. Impact statement This report presents human and animal data identifying a novel biomarker for the onset and progression of multiple sclerosis (MS). Humans diagnosed with MS have reduced serum levels of OGF (i.e. [Met5]-enkephalin) relative to non-MS neurologic patients, and low-dose naltrexone (LDN) therapy restored their enkephalin levels. Serum OGF levels were reduced in mice immunized with MOG35-55 prior to any clinical behavioral sign of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, and LDN therapy restored their serum OGF levels. β-endorphin concentrations were not altered by LDN in humans or mice. Thus, blood levels of OGF may serve as a new, selective biomarker for the progression of MS, as well as response to therapy.

Effect of cocoa on endorphin levels and craniofacial muscle sensitivity in healthy individuals

Abstract Aims Migraine headache is a recurrent incapacitating neurovascular disorder. A combination of events occurring within the trigeminovascular system has been suggested to underlie migraine pathogenesis, including release of inflammatory neuropeptides with subsequent effects on meningeal vessels and sensory transmission. Increased craniofacial muscle tenderness is also present in patients with migraine and a lower β-endorphin concentration has been observed in these patients. Several external factors have been identified, which can modulate migraine. One such factor is cocoa, though controversies still exist whether this substance exerts pro-algesic or analgesic effects. The present study evaluated effects of pure cocoa on a mechanically-induced headache model in healthy individuals. Serum β-endorphin concentrations were also measured to identify if any changes occurred in response to cocoa consumption. Methods Healthy volunteers (8 men and 7 women, average age: 22±1.8 years) participated in a crossover study (approval number: N-20160015) consisting of two sessions with consumption of water or cocoa. A mechanical headband (custom-made, Aalborg University) was utilized to induce a moderate headache with pain rated as 4 on a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS0–10). In each session Pressure Pain Threshold (PPT) was measured by a hand held algometer at temporalis muscles and blood samples were collected to assess β-endorphin levels by ELISA. ANOVA analysis and independent two-sample t-tests were performed for comparisons. P &lt; 0.05 was considered as significant. Results Consumption of cocoa compared to water did not change the pressure sensitivity in the craniofacial region without mechanical headband. No changes occurred in PPT with the mechanical headband either.Regardless of substance consumption (water/cocoa), endorphin levels remained unchanged. Conclusions Findings demonstrated that pure cocoa in the applied concentration and within the timeline of this study did not seem to exert any analgesic or pro-algesic effect on the mechanical sensitivity of craniofacial muscles or β-endorphin levels.

Influence of training and competitive sessions on peripheral β-endorphin levels in training show jumping horses.

Aim:To investigate the effects of training sessions on circulating β-endorphin changes in sport horses before and after competition and to ascertain whether competition would affect this response.Materials and Methods:A total of 24 trained jumping horses were randomly assigned to one of two training groups: Group A (competing) and Group B (not competing). To determined plasma β-endorphin concentrations, two pre- and post-competition training weeks at aerobic workout and two competitive show jumping event days at anaerobic workout were measured before, 5 and 30 min after exercise. Exercise intensity is described using lactate concentrations and heart rate. The circuit design, intensity, and duration of training sessions were the same for both groups.Results:In Group A, one-way analysis of variance for repeated measures (RM-ANOVA) showed significant effects of exercise on β-endorphin changes (F=14.41; p<0.001), only in the post-competition training sessions, while in Group B showed no significant effects. Two-way RM-ANOVA showed, after post-competition training sessions, a significant difference between Group A and Group B (F=6.235; p=0.023), with higher β-endorphin changes in Group A, compared to Group B. During the competitive show jumping sessions, one-way RM ANOVA showed significant effects of exercise on β-endorphin changes (F=51.10; p<0.001). The statistical analysis, in Group A, showed a significant difference between post-competition training and competitive exercise (F=6.32; p=0.024) with higher β-endorphin values in competitive sessions compared to those of post-competition training.Conclusion:Lactate concentrations seem to be the main factors being correlated with the raise of β-endorphin during anaerobic exercise of competitive events. Exercise of low intensity, as well as that one of training sessions, does not appear to stimulate a significant increased release of β-endorphin and it may depend on the duration of the exercise program. Moreover, the responses during exercise in the course of post-competition training sessions seem to be significantly different from those the pre-competition training. These data show that the preliminary competitive stress induced additional significant changes of β-endorphin pattern. It would reflect the need of a long-lasting modulation of fatigue and pain perception related to the effect of an additional physical and mental effort for the consecutive competitive and training sessions.

Metformin increases pressure pain threshold in lean women with polycystic ovary syndrome.

BackgroundDespite the strong preclinical rationale, there are only very few data considering the utility of metformin as a potential pain therapeutic in humans. The aim of this study was to determine the association between metformin therapy and pressure pain threshold (PPT) in lean women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). We hypothesized that metformin therapy in lean PCOS women increases PPT.Materials and methodsTwenty-seven lean PCOS women with free androgen index phenotype >5 and 18 lean healthy controls were enrolled in the study. Fifteen of the PCOS women were randomly assigned to be treated with metformin 1,500 mg daily for 6 months. PPT and plasma β-endorphin levels were measured in all women at the beginning of the study and after 6 months of observation.ResultsWe observed an increase in PPT values measured on deltoid and trapezius muscle in the PCOS with metformin group after 6 months of metformin administration (4.81±0.88 kg/cm2, P<0.001 on deltoid muscle, and 5.71±1.16 kg/cm2 on trapezius muscle). We did not observe any significant changes in PPT values in the PCOS without treatment group and in controls. We did not observe any significant changes in serum β-endorphin levels in any studied groups during the 6-month observation.ConclusionWe conclude that metformin therapy increases PPT in lean PCOS women, without affecting plasma β-endorphin concentration. Our results may suggest the potential role of metformin in pain therapy. We propose that larger, randomized studies on metformin impact on pain perception should be performed.

Effects of aqueous extracts from Panax ginseng and Hippophae rhamnoides on acute alcohol intoxication: An experimental study using mouse model

Ethnopharmacological relevanceAcute alcohol intoxication (AAI) is a frequent emergency, but therapeutic drugs with superior efficacy and safety are lacking. Panax ginseng (PG) and Hippophae rhamnoides (HR) respectively has a wide application as a complementary therapeutic agent in China for the treatment of AAI and liver injury induced by alcohol. We investigated the effects of aqueous extracts from PG and HR (AEPH) on AAI mice and identified its underlying mechanisms. Materials and methodsModels of AAI were induced by intragastric administration of ethanol (8g/kg). Seventy-two Specific pathogen-free (SPF) male Kunming mice were randomly divided into six groups: normal group, positive control group, AEPH of low dosage (100mg/kg) group, AEPH of medium dose (200mg/kg) group, AEPH of high dosage (400mg/kg) group and model group. The mice were treated with metadoxine (MTD, 500mg/kg) and AEPH. Thirty minutes later, the normal group was given normal saline, while the other groups were given ethanol (i.g., 8g/kg). The impact of AEPH was observed. In the same way, another seventy-two Kunming mice were randomly divided into six groups equally. The blood ethanol concentration at 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 3 and 6h after ethanol intake was determined by way of gas chromatography. The activity of alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) and microsomal ethanol oxidase (EO) in liver, and the concentration of β-endorphin (β-EP), leucine-enkephalin (LENK) in the brain were determined by enzyme-linked-immunosorbent serologic assay (ELISA). ResultsAEPH markedly prolonged alcohol tolerance time and shortened sober-up time after acute ethanol administration. AEPH decreased blood ethanol levels in six tests after ethanol intake. The 7-day survival rate of AEPH group was obviously superior to model group. AEPH increased the activities of ADH, ALDH, and decreased EO activity in liver. The crucial find was that AEPH markedly decreased β-EP and LENK concentration in the brain. ConclusionsAEPH can markedly increase the levels of ADH, ALDH, decrease EO activity in liver and decrease the concentration of β-EP and LENK in the brain to against acute alcohol intoxication in mice.

Comparative Exploration of the β-endorphin, Adrenocorticotrophic Hormone, and Cortisol Patterns' Response to Simulated and Conventional Transportations of Stallions (Equus caballus)

The present investigation was focalized to explore the circulating β-endorphin, adrenocorticotrophic hormone, and cortisol patterns as tool to compare the effects of simulated transportation (ST) and conventional transportation (CT) of 18 healthy Sanfratellano stallions accustomed to this procedure. Three different time points of duration (1, 2, and 3 hours) during STs were compared to three different time points of distance (50, 150, and 250 km) during CTs. Blood samples were taken 1 week before the experimental treatment, at rest in baseline conditions; at the first, the second, and the third week during STs, before loading, and after 1, 2, and 3 hours of duration, immediately after unloading; at the fourth, the fifth, and the sixth week during CTs, before loading, and after 50, 150, and 250 km, immediately after unloading. Compared to three different time points of distance (50, 150, and 250 km) of CTs, results showed lower β-endorphin concentrations after 1 hour (P < .001), 2 hours (P < .01), and 3 hours (P < .05) and lower cortisol concentrations after 1 hour, 2 hours, and 3 hours (P < .0001) after STs. Compared to before values, β-endorphin concentrations showed higher values after 2 hours (P < .001) of ST. The present research suggests that arousal levels of the two experimental treatments were different and that the highest circulating β-endorphin and cortisol values represented different moments of the active coping process in promoting the arousal levels and stress response.

Odors hedonic judgment in patients with schizophrenia. Influence of negative symptoms and β-endorphin levels

IntroductionThe relationship between olfactory and emotional processing is an area of increasing interest in schizophrenia research.ObjectivesOlfactory identification deficits are well described in schizophrenia while the results for pleasantness ratings remain unclear.AimsEvaluation of odor identification and hedonic judgment related to severity of negative symptoms and β-endorphin concentration.MethodsFifty outpatients with schizophrenia were included in the study: 25 with negative symptoms (PN) and 25 without predominant negative symptoms (P). They were compared with 23 healthy individuals. In all study groups University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT) and odor hedonic evaluation were performed. Clinical symptoms severity was evaluated using PANSS. Plasma concentrations of β-endorphin were assayed in all participants.ResultsPN made more odor identification errors than controls (P = 0.000) and P sample (P = 0.001). Hedonic judgments of unpleasant odors were significantly more pleasant in PN sample than in P (P = 0.03) and controls (P = 0.041). PN had significantly higher concentration of β-endorphin than P sample (P = 0.014) and controls (P = 0.009). No relationship between β-endorphin concentration and odors identification and odor hedonic judgment was found in both patient samples and controls.ConclusionsIncreased level of β-endorphin is related to predominance of negative symptoms but probably it is not involved in olfactory identification performance and hedonic judgment in schizophrenia. Patients with predominant negative symptoms revealed different pattern of pleasantness rating – they experience unpleasant odors as more pleasant. Alterations in smell identification and hedonic judgment could be differentially expressed in some subtypes of schizophrenia.Disclosure of interestThe author has not supplied his/her declaration of competing interest.

IMMUNE AND NEUROENDOCRINE ALTERATIONS IN LONG-DISTANCE RUNNING RACE

Introduction: Long-distance running race is a stressful event that can significantly affect virtually any of the physiologic systems of runners. More recently evidence has been mounting to support the long-distance running perception that athletes are susceptible to certain illness during intense training and major competition. Aim of Work: To focus on the immune function and neuroendocrine parameters response to prolonged (90 min) and intensive endurance running. Materials and Methods: Blood samples were collected from 12 male children runners (13.51 ± 1.29 years) 0h, 1hour, after the race. Complete blood count, secretion of cytokines in mitogen-activated cell culture and plasma, plasma concentration of β-endorphin, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), cortisol, and growth hormone (GH) were analyzed. Results: Significant increase in granulocyte and monocytes (MID-cell) count and lymphopenia were seen immediately after the race. Secretion of interleukin2 (IL-2) and interferon (IFN-γ) significantly declined at 0h and 1h after the running. Secretion of Tumor Necosis Factor (TNF-α) declined at 0h & remained suppressed until 1hours. Suppression in the secretion of (IL-1β) was observed at 1hour. Activated secretion of (IL-6) decreased after 1hours. Peak concentrations of ACTH, cortisol, β-endorphin, and GH were registered after the race (0 &1h). Conclusion: We co-ncluded that long-distance running race associated stress factors can alter physiologic balan-ce of cell-mediated versus humoral and anti-inflammatory versus proinflammatory cytokin-es. Results suggest that hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenocortical axis hormones played a sign-ificant role in the regulation of the observed changes. This information may be beneficial for development of new stress countermeasures to preserve wellness in subjects undergoing intensive physiological stress.

The effect of transcranial electrical stimulation of brain endorphinergic mechanisms on the blood β-endorphin level in experimental ischemic stroke and traumatic brain injury

Objective. The study objective was to evaluate the effect of transcranial electrical stimulation (TES therapy) of the brain endorphinergic mechanisms on opioidergic systems in experimental ischemic stroke in rats and in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI). Materials and methods . The plasma β-endorphin level was studied in rats with experimental ischemic stroke and in TBI patients in association with TES therapy and without it on days 1, 3, 7, and 14. Results. The plasma β-endorphin level consistently decreased in groups without TES therapy compared to the control through days 1 to 14. The use of TES therapy, starting the first day of experimental ischemic stroke in rats, promoted consistent growth and stabilization of the β-endorphin concentration at a level higher than the control one during the entire observation period through days 1 to 14. The β-endorphin level in patients with moderate to severe traumatic brain injury remained consistently decreased in association with standard therapy during the entire observation period through days 1 to 14. When applying TES therapy, the β-endorphin concentration was 1.39 times higher compared to that in a group of patients receiving standard treatment only. Discussion . Further research of the TES therapy effect on the course and outcome of ischemic stroke and traumatic brain injury is required. There is a potential opportunity to include TES therapy in the standards of care for patients in the acute phase of ischemic stroke and for TBI patients.

Effect of Walking Exercise in Forest on the Concentrations of β-endorphin and Norepinephrine

The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of 12 weeks walking exercise in forest on the concentrations of β-endorphin and norepinephrine. Walking in forest was executed three times per week for 12 weeks. A total of 30 female participants (mean age of 30-35 years) participated in this study. To analyse collected data, paired t-test was performed using SPSS. The outcomes are stated as the mean and standard deviation. The significance level was set at p .05. In results, the concentrations of β-endorphin and norepinephrine were significantly increased after walking exercise in forest. In conclusions, walking exercise in forest may help to improve the concentrations of β-endorphin and norepinephrine and it may lead to increase the physical health.