[Opiate receptors and endorphines (author's transl)]

Recent progress in narcotic drug research is briefly reviewed. Several investigators were able, independently to identify stereospecific opiate receptors, which mediate the specific effects of narcotic analgesics. A possible physiological importance of opiate receptors is likely, since endogenous ligands could be detected. Especially from brain and from pituitary glands of several species, quite a number of peptides with morphine-like effects could be isolated. The chemical structure of some of these endorphines could be analyzed. Endorphines are suggested to be involved in pain perception, electroanalgesia, acupuncture analgesia, psychiatric disorders, synthesis and release of pituitary hormones.