What Are Peptides?
Peptides are short chains of amino acids linked by peptide bonds. While proteins typically consist of 50+ amino acid residues, peptides generally contain 2–50. This smaller size gives peptides unique properties including higher specificity, lower immunogenicity, and easier synthesis compared to full-length proteins.
In biological systems, peptides serve as signaling molecules, hormones, neurotransmitters, and antimicrobial agents. In research, synthetic peptides allow scientists to study these biological functions in controlled environments with precise molecular specifications.
How Are Research Peptides Synthesized?
Modern peptide synthesis primarily uses Solid-Phase Peptide Synthesis (SPPS), developed by Bruce Merrifield in 1963 (Nobel Prize in Chemistry, 1984). The process anchors the first amino acid to an insoluble resin support, then sequentially adds protected amino acids. After assembly, the peptide is cleaved from the resin and purified via HPLC. At Ai-PEPTIDES, we use both Fmoc and Boc protection strategies depending on the peptide being synthesized.
Common Categories of Research Peptides
GLP-1 Receptor Agonists
Peptides that mimic glucagon-like peptide-1, studied for effects on metabolic pathways. Examples: Semaglutide and Tirzepatide (dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist).
Growth Hormone Secretagogues
Peptides that stimulate GH release from the pituitary gland. Ipamorelin is one of the most selective GHRPs studied, with minimal effects on cortisol and prolactin.
Body Protection Compounds
BPC-157 is a 15-amino acid peptide derived from gastric juice protein. Research has explored its potential effects on tissue repair, wound healing, and gastrointestinal function in animal models.
Growth Factors
IGF-1 LR3 is a modified insulin-like growth factor with an extended half-life. Applications include cellular proliferation studies and tissue engineering.
Melanocortin Peptides
Melanotan II is a synthetic alpha-MSH analog studied for effects on melanogenesis pathways and appetite regulation.
Copper Peptides
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper tripeptide complex studied for wound healing, collagen synthesis, and gene expression modulation.
Coenzymes
NAD+ is central to metabolic research — studied for its role in cellular energy production, DNA repair, and aging pathways.
Selecting Peptides for Your Research
When selecting peptides, consider: purity requirements (our standard is ≥99%), quantity needed, storage capabilities, specific biological targets, and whether you need lyophilized powder or reconstituted solutions.