09/23/2025
What are Peptides?
Peptides are short chains of amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. They are formed when two or more amino acids are linked together by peptide bonds.
Properties of Peptides:
They can range in size from a few amino acids to several dozen.
They have a unique sequence of amino acids, which determines their structure and function.
They are essential for many biological processes, such as hormone production, immune function, and cell signaling.
Examples of Peptides:
Insulin: A hormone that regulates blood sugar levels
Collagen: A structural protein found in skin, bones, and tendons
Thymosin: An immune system regulator
Growth hormone: A hormone that stimulates cell growth
Uses of Peptides:
They are used in pharmaceuticals to treat a variety of conditions, such as diabetes, cancer, and heart disease.
They are also used in skincare products to improve skin texture and reduce wrinkles.
They are being investigated as potential treatments for Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.
Additional Information:
Peptides are different from proteins, which are longer chains of amino acids.
Synthetic peptides can be created in the laboratory for research and medical purposes.