Endorphins can reduce perception of sensations initiated by
A) mechanoreceptors.
B) chemoreceptors.
C) nociceptors.
D) proprioceptors.
E) thermoreceptors.
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is:
C) nociceptors.
Explanation:
Endorphins are natural pain-relieving compounds produced by the body. They are part of the body’s endogenous opioid system and function similarly to opioids like morphine, binding to opioid receptors in the nervous system. Their primary role is to reduce the perception of pain, and this is most notably achieved through their action on nociceptors.
Nociceptors are specialized sensory receptors that respond to harmful stimuli, typically in the form of physical damage, injury, or extreme temperatures, which can be perceived as pain. When these receptors detect such noxious stimuli, they transmit signals to the brain, which interprets them as pain. The primary role of endorphins is to modulate the intensity of these pain signals. They bind to opioid receptors in the central nervous system, inhibiting the release of neurotransmitters that transmit pain signals, thus reducing the perception of pain.
The other types of sensory receptors listed do not primarily respond to pain and are not directly involved in the perception of noxious stimuli:
- Mechanoreceptors detect mechanical changes, such as pressure or vibration, and are involved in sensations like touch and proprioception.
- Chemoreceptors respond to chemical changes, such as detecting odors or the concentration of gases (e.g., oxygen, carbon dioxide) in the blood.
- Proprioceptors are involved in detecting body position and movement, providing information about the position of muscles, tendons, and joints.
- Thermoreceptors detect changes in temperature, such as heat and cold, but they are not specifically involved in pain perception.
In summary, endorphins specifically modulate the activity of nociceptors, leading to reduced pain perception and providing the body with a natural mechanism to cope with discomfort and stress. This is particularly relevant in situations where the body needs to maintain functionality despite injury, such as during intense physical activity or following traumatic events.