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Peptide Signal Specificity

Meaning

Peptide Signal Specificity describes the highly precise and selective interaction between a short-chain amino acid sequence (a peptide) and its corresponding receptor on the surface of a target cell, which dictates the exact biological response elicited. This specificity is determined by the unique primary structure and three-dimensional conformation of the peptide, ensuring that the molecular instruction is delivered only to the intended cell type or pathway. High specificity minimizes off-target effects and is a crucial design principle for therapeutic peptide development in hormonal and metabolic health. This characteristic is what makes peptide signaling so potent and targeted.