Definition: what is a peptide?
A peptide is a short chain of amino acids linked together by peptide bonds. Where a protein typically consists of hundreds of amino acids, a peptide usually contains between 2 and 50. This compact structure makes peptides particularly suitable as signalling molecules: small enough to penetrate tissue, yet specific enough to bind very selectively to receptors.
How do peptides work in the body?
Peptides play a role in virtually every biological process. They function as hormones, neurotransmitters, growth factors or immune modulators. Well-known examples are insulin, oxytocin and glucagon. Once a peptide binds to the matching receptor, a cascade of cellular responses is triggered from protein production to cell growth.
Peptides vs. proteins: what is the difference?
The difference comes down to length and complexity. Peptides are shorter and usually have a linear structure, while proteins fold into complex three-dimensional shapes. That simplicity makes peptides easier to produce synthetically, which is what makes them attractive for targeted research.
Main categories of peptides
- Metabolic peptides studied in preclinical research in relation to metabolic signalling pathways (e.g. TP-R research compounds).
- Growth peptides investigated for receptor binding within the growth hormone axis in in-vitro models.
- Dermatological peptides used in laboratory research on pigment and skin cell models (e.g. TP-M research compounds).
- Structural peptides the subject of cell culture research into tissue models (e.g. TP-C).
Why peptides are of interest for laboratory research
Because peptides act selectively and are broken down relatively quickly, they allow researchers to study highly specific pathways without broad systemic effects. That makes them a valuable instrument in preclinical research, biochemical assays and receptor binding studies.
Quality and purity
The value of peptide research stands or falls with the purity of the material. HPLC analysis (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography) and mass spectrometry are the industry standards for confirming that a peptide meets the intended specifications (typically ≥99% purity). Every product in our range is tested externally the reports are transparently available on our lab results page.
Frequently asked questions
What exactly are peptides?
Short chains of amino acids (2–50) that act as signalling molecules and are involved in virtually every biological process.
What is the difference between peptides and proteins?
Peptides are shorter and simpler in structure; proteins are longer and fold into complex shapes.
Are peptides safe for human use?
The peptides TeddyPeps offers are intended exclusively for laboratory research (Research Use Only). They are not approved for human or animal consumption. Read our RUO disclaimer for the full terms.
Further research
Browse our full range of research peptides in the shop or read more background information on the information page. Prefer Dutch? Read Wat zijn peptides?