What is a peptide?
Peptides are short chains of amino acids linked by peptide bonds. Typically, peptides contain less than 50 amino acids. Anything longer is usually referred to as a protein.
Some key facts about peptides:
- Peptides are synthesized in cells by ribosomes that "read" mRNA transcripts and assemble amino acids.
- They perform a wide variety of functions, including cell signaling (like insulin), antimicrobial activity, and hormone activity.
- There are several common peptide classes:
- Oligopeptides have 2 to 20 amino acids.
- Polypeptides have more than 20 amino acids but less than 50.
- Small proteins have more than 50 but less than 100 amino acids.
- In the laboratory, chemists can synthesize custom peptides for research studies or even medical treatments.
- Peptide-based drugs are used for conditions like diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular disease and more. The global peptide therapeutics market is valued at over $20 billion in 2022.
Medically and commercially relevant peptides include:
- Vasopressin - antidiuretic hormone
- Oxytocin - stimulates uterine contractions
- Insulin - regulates blood glucose levels
- Endorphins - act on opioid receptors to reduce pain
Many of these peptides like insulin are still being used to treat diseases, and research continues into other applications.
Overall, peptides represent an exciting area of pharmaceutical research, and peptide-based medications show promise for modern medical therapies. With their versatility and biological specificity, peptides may one day underpin solutions for cancer, autoimmune conditions, neurological disorders, and more.
Let me know if you have any other questions!