CSF beta-endorphin and beta-lipotropin in Alzheimer's disease and multi-infarct dementia.

We measured CSF levels of the opioid peptides beta-endorphin and beta-lipotropin in patients with Alzheimer's disease, multi-infarct dementia and controls. In both dementia groups, the mean concentration of beta-endorphin was significantly lower than in controls. The mean beta-lipotropin levels did not differ significantly in the two groups. The low CSF beta-endorphin level may relate generally to dementia.