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Pain perception and endorphin levels in cerebrospinal fluid
Lars von Knorring1, Bela G L Almay, Folke Johansson
1Departments of Psychiatry and Neurology, University Hospital, 901 85 Umeå, Sweden Department of Pharmacology, University of Uppsala, Uppsala, Sweden.
Pain
|December 1, 1978
Summary
Endorphins in cerebrospinal fluid significantly influence pain perception. Higher endorphin levels correlate with increased pain threshold and tolerance in chronic pain patients, suggesting their role in pain modulation.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pain Research
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Chronic pain syndromes represent a significant clinical challenge.
- Endogenous opioid peptides, such as endorphins, are implicated in pain modulation.
- Understanding the physiological factors influencing pain perception is crucial for developing effective treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between endorphin levels in cerebrospinal fluid and pain measures in patients with chronic pain.
- To determine if endorphin levels correlate with pain threshold and tolerance.
Main Methods:
- Assessed 45 patients with chronic pain syndromes.
- Measured endorphins (fraction I) in cerebrospinal fluid.
- Evaluated pain threshold and tolerance levels using electrical stimulation with saline electrodes.
Main Results:
- Patients with high levels of fraction I (above median) demonstrated significantly higher pain threshold and tolerance levels.
- A significant difference in pain measures was observed between patients with high and low endorphin levels.
Conclusions:
- Endorphins in cerebrospinal fluid are a significant physiological factor contributing to pain threshold and tolerance.
- These findings highlight the role of endogenous opioids in the complex mechanisms of chronic pain.