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Peptide Oxidation

Meaning

Peptide Oxidation is a chemical degradation pathway where a peptide molecule undergoes an irreversible reaction with an oxidizing agent, typically reactive oxygen species, leading to the modification of susceptible amino acid residues within its structure. Methionine, cysteine, and tryptophan are particularly vulnerable residues, and their oxidation can result in a conformational change of the peptide, potentially leading to a significant loss of its biological activity and receptor binding affinity. This process is a major concern in the manufacturing, storage, and clinical use of therapeutic peptides and hormones, as it directly compromises the compound’s potency and overall shelf-life.