Section 1 - CHEMICAL PRODUCT AND COMPANY IDENTIFICATION

PRODUCT NAME

LEUCINE ENKEPHALIN LYSINE

STATEMENT OF HAZARDOUS NATURE

Not considered a hazardous substance according to OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1200.

NFPA

PRODUCT USE

Non- selective delta and mhu agonist. The name " endorphin" is derived from " endogenous
morphine" and is applied to a group of neuropeptides that bind to opiate receptors. They
are found in the brain, pituitary gland, and peripheral tissues of all vertebrates. The
effects of the endorphins on cells resembles those of opiates such as morphine. Several
important members of the endorphin group have been identified including the alpha- , beta-
, gamma- , alpha- neo- , and beta- neo- endorphins, dynorphin, and the pentapeptides, met-
enkephalin and leu- enkephalin. beta- Endorphin is the most potent member of the group.
The amino- acid sequences of alpha, beta and gamma- endorphins are contained within the
sequence 61- 91 of beta- lipotropin (a hypophyseal hormone which stimulates the release of
fatty acids from adipose tissues) and in each, the amino terminal pentapeptide is that of
met- enkephalin. Dynorphin and alpha- and beta- neo- endorphins have common terminal leu-
enkephalin sequences. Although the physiological role of endorphins has not been
completely elucidated they are known to block inhibitory pathways in the vertebrate
central nervous system; this may effect pain perception, addictive states and some
psychiatric disorders. Some studies show that endorphins regulate the metabolism of
glucose.

SYNONYMS

C34-H49-N7-O8, Tyr-Gly-Gly-Phe-Leu-Lys, endorphin, "opioid peptide"

Section 2 - HAZARDS IDENTIFICATION

CANADIAN WHMIS SYMBOLS

None

EMERGENCY OVERVIEW

RISK

POTENTIAL HEALTH EFFECTS

ACUTE HEALTH EFFECTS

SWALLOWED

  Although ingestion is not thought to produce harmful effects, the material may still be damaging to the health of the individual following ingestion, especially where pre-  existing organ (e.g. liver, kidney) damage is evident. Present definitions of harmful or toxic substances are generally based on doses producing mortality (death) rather than those producing morbidity (disease, ill-health). Gastrointestinal tract discomfort may produce nausea and vomiting. In an occupational setting however, ingestion of insignificant quantities is not thought to be cause for concern.  Considered an unlikely route of entry in commercial/industrial environments.  

EYE

  Although the material is not thought to be an irritant, direct contact with the eye may produce transient discomfort characterized by tearing or conjunctival redness (as with windburn).  

SKIN

  The material is not thought to produce adverse health effects or skin irritation following contact (as classified using animal models). Nevertheless, good hygiene practice requires that exposure be kept to a minimum and that suitable gloves be used in an occupational setting.  

INHALED

  The material is not thought to produce adverse health effects or irritation of the respiratory tract (as classified using animal models). Nevertheless, good hygiene practice requires that exposure be kept to a minimum and that suitable control measures be used in an occupational setting.  Persons with impaired respiratory function, airway diseases and conditions such as emphysema or chronic bronchitis, may incur further disability if excessive concentrations of particulate are inhaled.  

CHRONIC HEALTH EFFECTS

  Principal routes of exposure are usually by skin contact/absorption and inhalation of generated dust.  No human exposure data available. For this reason health effects described are based on experience with chemically related materials.  As with any chemical product, contact with unprotected bare skin; inhalation of vapor, mist or dust in work place atmosphere; or ingestion in any form, should be avoided by observing good occupational work practice.