What are they?
Peptides are molecules made up of amino acids linked together by peptide bonds. They’re essentially smaller versions of proteins. These amino acids are the building blocks of proteins and perform various functions within the body.
Peptides have diverse roles in biological processes. Some act as hormones, like insulin or oxytocin, regulating important functions in the body. Others may act as signaling molecules, transmitting messages between cells. Additionally, certain peptides have gained attention for their potential therapeutic uses in medicine, such as in skincare, muscle building, and even in combating diseases.
Their size and structure make peptides versatile in drug development, where they can be engineered to have specific functions or properties, targeting particular biological processes or structures in the body.