WHAT IS A PEPTIDE?

A peptide is a short chain of amino acids linked together by peptide bonds. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, and when they combine in a specific sequence, they form peptides. Peptides can range in size from just a few amino acids to several dozen.

Here are some key points about peptides:

1. Amino Acids: Peptides are composed of amino acids, which are organic compounds containing a carboxyl group (COOH) and an amino group (NH2).
2. Peptide Bond: The linkage between amino acids in a peptide is called a peptide bond. It forms when the amino group of one amino acid reacts with the carboxyl group of another, releasing a water molecule in the process.
3. Classification: Peptides can be classified based on the number of amino acids in the chain:
   •    – Dipeptide: Two amino acids.
   •    – Tripeptide: Three amino acids.
   •    – Oligopeptide: A short chain of amino acids (up to around 20).
   •    – Polypeptide: A longer chain of amino acids, typically more than 20.
4. Functions: Peptides play crucial roles in biological systems. Some act as signaling molecules (hormones), others are involved in immune responses, and some serve as structural elements.
5. Examples: Hormones such as insulin and oxytocin are examples of peptides. Additionally, certain skincare products and supplements may contain peptides for various purposes, such as promoting collagen synthesis.
6. Research and Medicine: Peptides are of interest in scientific research and medicine. They may be studied for their potential therapeutic applications, and some synthetic peptides are used in medical treatments.

It’s important to note that peptides are distinct from proteins mainly in terms of size—peptides are generally smaller than proteins. Proteins are composed of longer chains of amino acids and often have complex three-dimensional structures that contribute to their specific functions.