Peptide Glossary

A short chain of amino acids (typically 2–50) linked by peptide bonds. Peptides are smaller than proteins and serve as signaling molecules in the body.

The building blocks of proteins and peptides. There are 20 standard amino acids that the human body uses to build proteins.

An injection into the fatty tissue just beneath the skin. This is the most common route of administration for therapeutic peptides.

The proportion of a drug or substance that enters the bloodstream and is able to have an active effect. Subcutaneous injection typically provides higher bioavailability than oral administration for peptides.

The time it takes for the concentration of a substance in the body to be reduced by half. Peptides often have short half-lives, which is why some (like CJC-1295 with DAC) are modified to extend their duration of action.

A hormone produced by the hypothalamus that stimulates the pituitary gland to produce and release growth hormone. Several peptides (like Sermorelin, CJC-1295) are analogs of GHRH.

A hormone produced primarily by the liver in response to growth hormone stimulation. IGF-1 mediates many of the anabolic effects of growth hormone, including muscle growth and fat metabolism.

The process of forming new blood vessels from existing ones. Peptides like BPC-157 and TB-500 promote angiogenesis, which is key to their tissue-healing properties.

A protein that supports the survival, growth, and maintenance of neurons. Often called "brain fertilizer," BDNF is increased by peptides like Semax and plays a key role in cognitive function and neuroplasticity.

A hormone released by the gut after eating that stimulates insulin secretion, suppresses glucagon, and reduces appetite. Semaglutide and tirzepatide are GLP-1 receptor agonists.

The process of dissolving a lyophilized (freeze-dried) peptide powder in bacteriostatic water to create an injectable solution. Proper reconstitution is essential for maintaining peptide potency.

Sterile water containing 0.9% benzyl alcohol, which prevents bacterial growth. It is used to reconstitute peptide powders for injection and allows the solution to be stored for longer periods than plain sterile water.

An AI architecture that combines a language model with a knowledge retrieval system. The Peptide Insights chatbot uses RAG to ground its answers in verified peptide research.

Protective caps at the ends of chromosomes that shorten with each cell division. Telomere length is associated with cellular aging. Epitalon is studied for its ability to activate telomerase and lengthen telomeres.