beta-Endorphin stimulates the secretion of insulin and glucagon in humans

Administration of beta-endorphin as an iv bolus elicited an acute and simultaneous rise in insulin and glucagon levels within 5 min in fasting normal male and female subjects. This was followed by an increase in the concentration of plasma glucose. The elevation of plasma insulin, glucagon and glucose levels lasted for up to 120 min. These observations suggest a possible role for beta-endorphin in the regulation of alpha and beta cell function within the pancreatic islets.