Peptide Glossary: Essential Research Terms
This comprehensive glossary covers the key terms peptide researchers encounter, from basic biochemistry to advanced pharmacology.
A-D
Agonist: A compound that activates a receptor (e.g., semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist). AMPK: AMP-activated protein kinase — a master metabolic regulator activated by MOTS-C and exercise. Angiogenesis: Formation of new blood vessels — promoted by TB-500 and BPC-157. Bacteriostatic water: Sterile water with 0.9% benzyl alcohol preservative for peptide reconstitution. Bioavailability: Fraction of administered dose reaching systemic circulation. COA: Certificate of Analysis — test documentation proving purity and identity. Cyclization: Forming a ring structure in a peptide for enhanced stability. Deamidation: Loss of amide group from asparagine/glutamine — a common degradation pathway.
E-L
GHS-R: Growth hormone secretagogue receptor — target of ipamorelin and ghrelin. GLP-1: Glucagon-like peptide-1 — incretin hormone mimicked by semaglutide. GHRH: Growth hormone-releasing hormone — mimicked by CJC-1295. HPLC: High-performance liquid chromatography — gold standard purity measurement. Incretin: Gut hormones (GLP-1, GIP) that enhance insulin secretion. Lyophilized: Freeze-dried peptide form with maximum shelf life.
M-R
Mass spectrometry: Analytical technique confirming peptide molecular identity. Melanocortin: Receptor system targeted by Melanotan II and KPV. mTOR: Mammalian target of rapamycin — growth and autophagy regulator. Peptide bond: Covalent bond between amino acids forming the peptide backbone. Reconstitution: Dissolving lyophilized peptide in bacteriostatic water.
S-Z
Secretagogue: Compound stimulating hormone release (e.g., GH secretagogues). SPPS: Solid-phase peptide synthesis — standard manufacturing method. Subcutaneous: Injection into fatty tissue layer — most common peptide route. VEGF: Vascular endothelial growth factor — promoted by BPC-157 and TB-500.
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