Peptides are short chains of amino acids, typically containing 2-50 amino acids. They are essentially small proteins. Peptides play diverse biological roles in the human body. Some examples of peptides include insulin, oxytocin, and endorphins.
What do peptides do?
Peptides have many critical functions:
- Hormonal signaling - Peptides like insulin regulate appetite and metabolism
- Cell communication - Peptides relay signals between cells
- Immune defense - Antimicrobial peptides fight pathogens
- Pain relief - Endorphins block pain signals
Some peptides, like the amino acid chains that make up proteins, are produced naturally in the body. Others are
synthetic peptides created in laboratories for pharmaceutical use.
Examples of therapeutic peptides
- Diabetes treatments (injectable insulin peptides)
- Skin healing medications
- Anticancer drugs
- Supplements to stimulate tissue growth
In recent years, the therapeutic use of bioactive peptides has rapidly expanded. The global peptide therapy market is expected to grow to
$46.6 billion USD by 2027.
Peptide supplements
Peptide supplements have surged in popularity due to reported benefits like accelerated injury recovery, anti-aging effects, muscle building, and fat loss. However, the long-term safety of synthetic peptides is still understudied. I recommend speaking to a qualified hormone therapy provider before trying peptide supplements.
For expert guidance on peptide therapies and testing in a safe medical setting, visit
Wellness Hormone Clinic. Their specialized clinicians offer personalized treatment plans to help patients achieve their health and wellness goals.
Types of peptides
There are different classes of peptides:
- Oligopeptides - Short peptide chains less than 10-15 AAs
- Polypeptides - Longer peptide chains between 15-50 AAs
- Proteins - Very long peptides with 50 AAs
Peptide bonds
Peptides are formed when the
carboxyl group of one amino acid bonds to the
amine group of the next acid. This bond is called an amide or peptide bond. The sequence and number of amino acids determines each peptide’s structure and function.
I hope this gives you a helpful overview explaining what peptides are! Let me know if you have any other questions.