Peptides have been used as drugs since the 1950s when they were first discovered. However, their therapeutic potential has only recently begun to be realized. Peptides are small chains of amino acids that are naturally produced by our bodies. They play an important role in many biological processes, including cell signaling, immune response, and blood clotting. In recent years, scientists have found that peptides can also be used therapeutically to treat a variety of diseases.
What Are Peptides? Peptides are chains of amino acids that occur naturally in our bodies. They are made up of 20 different amino acids. Each amino acid consists of one carbon atom, two hydrogen atoms, and three oxygen atoms. Amino acids are arranged in a chain with alternating hydrophobic (waterhating) and hydrophilic (water-loving) groups. Hydrophobic groups tend to stick together while hydrophilic groups repel each other. This arrangement allows peptides to form stable structures. They are small molecules that act as messengers between cells. They bind to receptors on cell membranes and trigger an immune response. This process is called signaling. Peptides are often used to treat autoimmune diseases because they mimic natural proteins and help the body recognize its own tissues.
Why Do We Need Peptides? Peptides are essential building blocks of life. They play an integral role in cell signaling, protein synthesis, and energy production. In addition, peptides are involved in regulating blood pressure, immune response, and hormone secretion.
Where Can I Find Peptides? Peptides can be found naturally in foods such as milk, eggs, meat, fish, nuts, seeds, and vegetables. You can also find them synthetically produced by chemical companies.
When Should I Start Using Peptides? Peptides are usually administered by injection into the bloodstream. Because peptides are so small, they can easily cross the blood–brain barrier and enter the brain. In addition, peptides are not metabolized by the liver, making them ideal for treating neurological disorders. If you are interested in peptide therapy, you can work with a functional medicine doctor or natural health care practitioner to help you with that treatment and explain the process to you.