Peptide therapy mechanism describes the specific, detailed molecular action by which exogenous therapeutic peptides, which are short, synthesized chains of amino acids, interact with cell-surface receptors to selectively modulate and restore downstream physiological processes. Unlike larger whole proteins or small molecule drugs, these peptides offer highly targeted, low-side-effect signaling to restore homeostatic balance within the endocrine, immune, or neurological systems.
Origin
This field evolved from classical endocrinology and modern biotechnology, building upon the seminal discovery of naturally occurring regulatory peptides like insulin and growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). It represents a modern, precision approach to biological signaling, exploiting the body’s native communication language.
Mechanism
Therapeutic peptides typically function as ligands, binding with high affinity and exquisite specificity to G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) or other transmembrane receptors located on the surface of target cells. This highly specific binding initiates a crucial intracellular signaling cascade, such as the cAMP or MAPK pathways, which ultimately alters gene expression or enzyme activity, leading to a desired clinical effect like increased growth hormone secretion or enhanced tissue repair.
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