Question 1

What are peptides?

Accepted Answer

Peptides are short chains of amino acids (typically 2-50) linked by peptide bonds. They're essentially small proteins that act as signaling molecules in the body. Many hormones, neurotransmitters, and growth factors are peptides. Examples include insulin, oxytocin, and growth hormone releasing peptides.

Question 2

What's the difference between peptides and proteins?

Accepted Answer

The main difference is size. Peptides contain 2-50 amino acids, while proteins contain 50+ amino acids. Proteins have more complex three-dimensional structures and typically serve structural or enzymatic functions, while peptides often act as signaling molecules. The distinction can be fuzzy, as some molecules in the 40-60 amino acid range may be called either.

Question 3

How do peptides work in the body?

Accepted Answer

Peptides work by binding to specific receptors on cell surfaces or inside cells, triggering biological responses. Different peptides target different receptors - for example, GLP-1 peptides bind to GLP-1 receptors affecting appetite and blood sugar, while growth hormone releasing peptides bind to ghrelin receptors to stimulate GH release. This receptor specificity determines what effects each peptide has.

Question 4

Are peptides the same as steroids?

Accepted Answer

No, peptides and steroids are completely different. Steroids are lipid-based compounds derived from cholesterol (like testosterone, cortisol), while peptides are chains of amino acids. They work through different mechanisms - steroids typically enter cells and affect gene expression directly, while most peptides work through cell surface receptors. The effects, side effects, and regulatory status are different.

Question 5

Are peptides legal?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the peptide and jurisdiction. Many peptides are FDA-approved prescription medications (insulin, semaglutide, oxytocin). Others are sold as 'research chemicals' which can be legally purchased but not for human use. Some peptides are banned by sports organizations. The legal status varies by country. Always check local regulations and work with healthcare providers for any medical use.

Question 6

Are peptides safe?

Accepted Answer

Safety varies widely by peptide. FDA-approved peptides like insulin and GLP-1 agonists have extensive safety data. Research peptides have less human data and unknown long-term effects. 'Natural' doesn't mean safe - many toxins are peptides. Safety depends on the specific compound, dose, purity, and individual factors. Always consult healthcare providers and understand that research peptides carry unknown risks.

Question 7

What does 'research chemical' mean for peptides?

Accepted Answer

A 'research chemical' peptide is one sold for laboratory research purposes, not approved for human use. This designation allows legal sale but means: limited human safety data, no FDA oversight of the product, variable quality control, and use is at your own risk. Many promising peptides remain in this category while awaiting clinical trials. It's not a guarantee of safety or efficacy.

Question 8

How are peptides typically administered?

Accepted Answer

Most peptides are injected subcutaneously (under the skin) because they're broken down by digestion if taken orally. Some can be administered intranasally (Semax, Selank), intramuscularly, or intravenously. A few have been specially formulated for oral use (oral semaglutide uses a special absorption enhancer). Topical peptides are used in skincare. The route depends on the peptide's stability and target.

Question 9

Why are some peptides FDA approved and others not?

Accepted Answer

FDA approval requires extensive clinical trials proving safety and efficacy for specific conditions - a process costing hundreds of millions of dollars. Many peptides haven't completed this process due to: ongoing research, lack of commercial interest, failed trials, or being too new. FDA-approved peptides (insulin, semaglutide, etc.) have proven safety profiles. Non-approved peptides may work but lack this validation.

Question 10

What are common side effects of peptides?

Accepted Answer

Side effects vary by peptide class. GLP-1 agonists commonly cause nausea, vomiting, and GI effects. Growth hormone peptides may cause water retention, joint pain, and blood sugar changes. Healing peptides like BPC-157 have few reported side effects in studies. Some peptides affect hormones with potential long-term implications. Always research specific peptides and report unusual symptoms to healthcare providers.

Question 11

What is Peptibase?

Accepted Answer

Peptibase is an educational resource providing research-backed information about peptides. Our database includes detailed profiles of peptides with their mechanisms, research summaries, and important considerations. We aim to help people understand peptide science through accurate, well-sourced information. Peptibase is not a vendor or medical provider - we provide education only.

Question 12

How is the information on Peptibase sourced?

Accepted Answer

Our information comes from peer-reviewed scientific literature, clinical trial data, and FDA documentation. Each peptide profile includes references to PubMed studies and official sources. We prioritize human clinical data where available, noting when information is from animal studies or preclinical research. We regularly update content as new research emerges.

Question 13

How often is the Peptibase database updated?

Accepted Answer

We continuously update our database as new research is published, clinical trials complete, and FDA approvals change. Major updates occur monthly, with more frequent additions of new peptides and research findings. The peptide field evolves rapidly, so we strive to keep information current while maintaining accuracy.

Question 14

Can I suggest a peptide to add to the database?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We welcome suggestions for peptides to add to our database. Please contact us through our contact page with the peptide name and any relevant research you'd like us to review. We prioritize peptides with published research, clinical significance, or growing interest in the research community.

Question 15

Is Peptibase medical advice?

Accepted Answer

No. Peptibase provides educational information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. We do not recommend, prescribe, or endorse any peptide use. Always consult qualified healthcare providers before making any health decisions. Our content is for informational purposes to help you understand peptide research.

Question 16

What are Growth Hormone Secretagogues?

Accepted Answer

Growth hormone secretagogues (GHS) are compounds that stimulate the body's natural production of growth hormone. They include GHRPs (like Ipamorelin, GHRP-6) that work through ghrelin receptors, and GHRH analogs (like Sermorelin, CJC-1295) that mimic natural growth hormone releasing hormone. Unlike exogenous GH, secretagogues maintain natural pulsatile release patterns.

Question 17

What are healing peptides?

Accepted Answer

Healing peptides are compounds researched for tissue repair and recovery. BPC-157, derived from gastric juice proteins, is studied for tendon, ligament, and gut healing. TB-500 (Thymosin Beta-4) promotes cell migration and wound healing. These peptides work through mechanisms like promoting angiogenesis, reducing inflammation, and enhancing collagen synthesis.

Question 18

What are cognitive or nootropic peptides?

Accepted Answer

Cognitive peptides are researched for brain health and mental performance. Semax and Selank, approved in Russia, affect BDNF and neurotransmitter systems. Dihexa promotes synaptogenesis. Cerebrolysin contains neurotrophic factors. These peptides are studied for neuroprotection, memory enhancement, and anxiety reduction, though most lack FDA approval.

Question 19

What are GLP-1 peptides?

Accepted Answer

GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) agonists mimic a natural hormone that regulates blood sugar and appetite. FDA-approved examples include semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound). They're approved for type 2 diabetes and weight management. Newer versions like retatrutide target multiple receptors for enhanced effects.

Question 20

What are cosmetic peptides?

Accepted Answer

Cosmetic peptides are used in skincare products for anti-aging effects. GHK-Cu (copper peptide) stimulates collagen synthesis. Argireline and Snap-8 reduce wrinkles by inhibiting muscle contraction. Matrixyl promotes collagen production. These are applied topically and have good safety profiles for skincare use.

Question 21

How should peptides be stored?

Accepted Answer

Lyophilized (powder) peptides should be stored in the refrigerator (2-8°C) for routine use, or freezer (-20°C) for long-term storage. Keep them sealed and protected from light. Reconstituted peptides must be refrigerated and used within 2-4 weeks - never freeze reconstituted peptides. Always follow specific manufacturer guidelines.

Question 22

How are peptides reconstituted?

Accepted Answer

To reconstitute peptides: let the vial reach room temperature, clean the top with alcohol, slowly add bacteriostatic water along the vial wall (not directly on powder), and swirl gently - never shake. Wait for complete dissolution before use. Use bacteriostatic water for multi-dose vials and label with the date. Follow specific instructions for each peptide.

Question 23

How do I report incorrect information on Peptibase?

Accepted Answer

If you find information you believe is incorrect, please contact us through our contact page with details about the error and any supporting references. We take accuracy seriously and will review and update information as needed. We appreciate the community helping us maintain the highest quality educational resource.

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