How do Peptides Work?

There are a large variety of peptides, which are used in scientific studies for a range of purposes.   Studies have been conducted on animal test subjects to determine which peptides work best for specific projects. Peptides are intended for laboratory research only.  Not for human consumption.

What Are Peptides?

In layman’s terms, peptides are a compound of two or more amino acids through the binding of the carboxyl group of one and the amino group of the other. The peptide bond is created once the water molecule is eliminated. Peptides can be looked upon as small proteins. For instance, anything that has 49 amino acids or less are considered peptides – however, this isn’t a golden rule for determining what is and isn’t a peptide. A dipeptide is a peptide that consists of two amino acids that are bonded by a single peptide bond. Tripeptides are peptides that have three amino acids that have two peptide bonds that bound them together. Polypeptides are simply one elongated un-branched line of amino acids that are bound together by peptide bonds, but isn’t complex enough to be considered a protein. Proteins, by the way, consist of polypeptides.

The Functions of Peptides in the Body

In order for the body to work properly, amino acids are needed to produce peptides. The body stops the production of peptides as it ages or due to stress, poor diet and physical changes. These scenarios can cause a down-regulated production of peptides. For instance, as the body ages, the growth factor, known as IGF-1, is reduced naturally.

There are a variety of functions that peptides have in the body. Some peptides act similar to neurotransmitters and others act like hormones. When used in test subjects, peptides are shown to influence physical exercise and diet. In order to increase muscle growth, a certain amount of amino acids are needed. This will produce HGH, human growth hormones. Peptides have been used in studies involving bodybuilding and athletic test subjects, to see if it can counteract down-regulations in growth factors.

In the studies that administer peptides to animal test subjects, results show that the peptide is easily digested by the body, since it is small enough to be broken down, unlike with larger protein molecules. It is also believed that peptides are more beneficial than amino acids that are un-bonded and unstable.

Types of Peptides

Creatine and glutamine peptides are widely used in research studies. In the research, it shows that the body absorbs them quicker and has few adverse effects. Peptides can come in powder, pill or injection form. Studies show that peptides that are in the injectable form help to produce growth hormones, enhance lean body mass and reduce the percentage of body fat in test subjects; it is also shown to speed up the recovery process after working out. Some of the peptides within this category include IGF-1, GHRP-6 and Ipamorelin. The peptides that are commonly used in anti-aging studies include SNAP-8 and Pal-GHK.

As studies continue for peptides, more research details will be released in regards to their effectiveness for muscle building, weight loss, athletic performance enhancement and anti-aging.

Disclaimer: Peptides are still undergoing extensive research and is not intended for consumer use. When purchasing peptides, it’s important that they only be used for experimental purposes. Strict laboratory guidelines should be followed when conducting tests using peptides. It is also recommended that safety equipment be worn by researchers. If exposure to a peptide occurs, it’s important to wash it away as quickly as possible.