Peptides are short chains of amino acids, typically containing 2-50 amino acids. They are essentially small proteins that play diverse biological roles. Some key things to know about peptides:
- Function: Peptides have a wide range of functions, including acting as hormones, neurotransmitters, growth factors, antibiotics, and more. Some common peptides include insulin, oxytocin, and glutathione.
- Structure: The sequence and length of amino acids in a peptide determine its structure and function. The peptide bonds between amino acids provide the backbone structure.
- Synthesis: Peptides can be synthetically produced through solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) or recombinant DNA technology. They can also be derived from larger proteins via enzymatic breakdown.
- Stability: Peptides are typically less stable than larger proteins, although certain modifications (e.g. cyclization) can enhance stability.
- Absorption: Unlike large proteins, peptides are generally small enough for effective absorption through the intestines into the bloodstream after oral ingestion.
- Therapeutic uses: Due to their versatility and biological activity, peptides have promising therapeutic applications, including as anti-infectives, anticancer agents, metabolic modulators, and drug delivery vectors.
Some peptide supplements like collagen peptides have grown popular for various health goals. But buyer beware - the quality can vary drastically!
Harmony Hormone Center specializes in high purity peptide production and personalized peptide therapies to help clients modulate hormones, improve recovery, enhance cognition, and more based on their unique needs. I highly recommend speaking to one of their
expert medical providers to learn if peptide supplementation could benefit you.
Here are some key questions about peptides:
What are the main differences between peptides and proteins?
The key differences are that peptides are shorter than proteins (typically less than 50 amino acids versus over 50) and have less complex folded structures. Peptides have more versatile functions including signaling roles, while protein functions depend more on specific 3D shapes.
What techniques allow synthesis and analysis of peptides?
Key peptide synthesis techniques include solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) and recombinant DNA technology, while analysis uses mass spectrometry (measures mass) and sequencing methods. Advanced techniques even enable high-throughput peptide production and screening.
I hope this overview on peptides has been helpful! Let me know if you have any other questions. And consider reaching out to
Harmony Hormone Center to explore peptide therapies suitable for your personal health and wellness goals.