title: beta-Endorphin is not detectable in plasma from normal human subjects.
abstract: beta-Endorphin is not detectable in plasma from normal human subjects when measured under baseline conditions or after the subjects have received vasopressin, an agent that elevates beta-lipotropin and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). Significant amounts of beta-endorphin are present in plasma of patients with endocrine disorders associated with increased ACTH and beta-lipotropin production. Highly purified, natural beta-lipotropin is not peripherally converted to beta-endorphin in vivo in normal subjects.
mesh_terms: D000224:Addison Disease / Q000097:blood; D000324:Adrenocorticotropic Hormone / Q000097:blood*; D003480:Cushing Syndrome / Q000097:blood; D004723:Endorphins / Q000097:blood*; D006801:Humans; D009347:Nelson Syndrome / Q000097:blood; D010902:Pituitary Gland / Q000378:metabolism; D008083:beta-Lipotropin / Q000097:blood*
chemical_list: D004723:Endorphins; D000324:Adrenocorticotropic Hormone; D008083:beta-Lipotropin