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Morales-Mulia, M., De Gortari, P., Amaya, M. I., & Méndez, M. (2012). Activity and expression of enkephalinase and aminopepti- dase N in regions of the mesocorticolimbic system are selectively modified by acute ethanol administration. Journal of Molecular Neuroscience: MN, 46, 58-67. doi:10.1007/s12031-011-9623-2

has been cited by the following article:

• TITLE: Proposal to Prevent Alcohol Dependence Using Purpose in Life/Ikigai to Mimic the Chemical Effects of β-Endorphin

  AUTHORS: Riichiro Ishida

  KEYWORDS: Purpose in Life/Ikigai; Alcohol Dependence; Pleasure; Anxiety; β-Endorphin

  JOURNAL NAME: Psychology, Vol.3 No.7, June 18, 2012

  ABSTRACT: Purpose in life (PIL)/ikigai is a social attitude based on the concept that, “every person has a need to establish meaning in life”. Comfort and pleasure are related to the secretion of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine and β-endorphin. Drinking alcohol can also trigger emotions and cause the secretion of β-endorphin. Persons, who have an inner sense of satisfaction, do not need or want to induce comfort and pleasure by using alcohol or morphine. The primary chemical structures of β-endorphin and morphine are similar. Therefore, it is possible that helping people to achieve PIL/ikigai could strengthen psychological and/or physical defenses against alcohol dependence.