When organized into complex structures (typically consisting of 50 or more amino acids), peptides become proteins.
They are also the basis of various medications and supplements.
Some peptide supplements may help reduce inflammation, boost wound healing and collagen formation, and build muscle.
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That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
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What Do Peptides Do?
Peptides play many roles in the human body.
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It causes the uterus to contract during childbirth.
Oxytocin also plays a pivotal role in the milk ejection reflex (“let down”) during breastfeeding.
Angiotensins: These peptide hormones are part of therenin-angiotensinsystem.
Uses for Peptides
Peptides possess antioxidant, antimicrobial, andantithrombotic(anti-clotting) effects, among others.
Peptides used in medicines are either naturally occurring or synthetic.
Research shows thatatrial natriureticpeptide (ANP), for instance, can be potentially effective in treating colorectal cancer.
Peptide-Based Vaccines
Peptides play a special role in vaccines.
Peptide-based vaccines hold plenty of potential, however, they arent without their limitations.
Pathogen-based vaccines tend to cause a greater immune response which often leads to better protection.
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Dietary Supplements
Many supplements contain peptides because of their potential health benefits.
Antiaging:Collagen is one of the substances that form skin, bone, and cartilage.
Collagen peptides are simply small pieces of collagen.
Improved wound healing:Collagen is used in various wound treatments, including wound dressings for burn injury scaffolds.
Antimicrobial peptides can serve both roles, regenerating skin while providing antimicrobial protection.
Cosmetics
Due to their potential anti-aging benefits, many topical creams and skin care formulationscontain peptides.
Some studies have shown that topical system of some peptides may have positive effects on aged and photodamaged skin.
However, misuse or unapproved use of these supplements can cause serious health problems.
The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) prohibits the use of all peptide hormones.
Summary
Peptides are compounds that carry out many important functions in the human body.
Theyre also used and being studied extensively, for the treatment and management of medical conditions and health issues.
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