What are peptides?

Peptides are short chains of amino acids linked together by peptide bonds. In the scientific literature, they have been considered key biomolecules involved in the regulation of numerous physiological processes, from growth and repair to metabolic control and cellular communication. Depending on their length and structure, they are classified as dipeptides, tripeptides, oligopeptides, and polypeptides.


In recent years, peptides have attracted increasing attention in the fields of molecular biology, medical research, sports science, and cosmetology , becoming the focus of a number of innovative studies.


Main functions of peptides

In scientific research, peptides have been observed to be involved in:

  • Hormonal regulation – supporting growth hormone secretion and metabolic balance.

  • Regeneration and repair – stimulation of cell growth, angiogenesis and collagen synthesis.

  • Metabolic support – impact on appetite, glucose tolerance and fat breakdown.

  • Cosmetic and dermatological research – supporting collagen synthesis and skin elasticity.

  • Neurophysiological processes – potential effects on sleep, stress and cognitive function.


Peptide Categories and Examples

Growth hormone stimulating peptides

This group has been the subject of numerous studies targeting endogenous GH (Growth Hormone) secretion :

  • GHRP-6 and GHRP-2 – have been used in studies to stimulate the release of growth hormone.

  • Ipamorelin and Hexarelin – selective peptides studied for controlled stimulation without increasing prolactin or cortisol.

  • CJC-1295 and Sermorelin – analog peptides observed to support pulsatile GH release.


Metabolic and reducing peptides

Research in this group has focused on appetite, glucose metabolism, and energy balance :

  • Semaglutide – a GLP-1 agonist being studied for appetite and glucose regulation.

  • Tirzepatide – a dual GLP-1/GIP agonist studied for metabolic regulation.

  • Retatrutide – a three-way GLP-1/GIP/Glucagon agonist, described in the literature as a peptide with potential multi-receptor effects.

  • HGH Frag 176-191 – used in scientific experiments to study lipolytic processes


Regenerative and restorative peptides

These peptides have been studied to support repair processes, angiogenesis, and healing :

  • BPC-157 – a peptide considered to stimulate tissue and tendon repair.

  • Thymosin Beta-4 and TB-500 – analogs associated with cell migration and regeneration.

  • Thymosin Alpha-1 – studied for immunomodulatory properties.

  • Epitalon – a peptide considered in the context of cell renewal and antioxidant activity.


Cosmetic and anti-aging peptides

This group includes peptides observed in dermatological and cosmetic studies:

  • GHK-Cu – a copper tripeptide documented to stimulate collagen synthesis and skin repair.

  • IGF-1 LR3 – studied for cell growth and anabolic activity.

  • Melanotan II – an agonist of the MC1R receptor, studied for increasing melanogenesis.

  • PT-141 (Bremelanotide) – studied for neuropeptide effects related to libido.


Neuropeptides and modulatory peptides

  • DSIP (Delta Sleep-Inducing Peptide) – a peptide mentioned in the literature as a potential regulator of sleep and stress.


Storage and stability

In scientific practice, peptides have been stored at low temperatures (usually 2–8°C or below -20°C) , protected from light and moisture, to ensure their stability and activity. The shelf life at 2–8°C is 2 years.


Conclusion

In modern science, peptides occupy a leading position as molecules with a wide spectrum of action – from cell regeneration and metabolic control to aesthetic and neurophysiological research.

Each of them possesses a unique mechanism and biological potential, making them a valuable tool for scientific research and laboratory experiments .

With growing interest and ongoing research, peptides continue to open up new possibilities for the future of biotechnology and medicine.