Peptides

Peptides are short chains of amino acids that are linked by peptide bonds. They are a fundamental component of cells that carry out important biological functions. Peptides are similar to proteins, but differ in terms of their size and structure.

Structure and Synthesis

Peptides are synthesized by the process of peptide synthesis, which involves the formation of a peptide bond between two amino acids. This process is carried out by ribosomes in the cell. The sequence of amino acids in a peptide is defined by the sequence of a gene, which is encoded in the DNA.

Peptides can be classified into several types based on their length: dipeptides (two amino acids), tripeptides (three amino acids), oligopeptides (few amino acids), and polypeptides (many amino acids).

Functions

Peptides play a crucial role in the functioning of the body's cells. They act as enzymes, helping to break down food into energy. They also function as hormones, transmitting signals across the body. Some peptides act as antibiotics, fighting against harmful bacteria.

Medical and Therapeutic Use

In the field of medicine, peptides are used in various therapies. They are used in the treatment of diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and heart diseases. They are also used in anti-aging therapies, as they can stimulate the production of collagen in the skin.

Research and Future Applications

Research is being conducted on the use of peptides in the treatment of various diseases. They are being studied for their potential use in drug delivery systems, as they can penetrate the cell membrane and deliver drugs directly to the target cells.