Signal Transduction Peptides are short-chain amino acid sequences that act as crucial communication molecules, binding to specific cell surface receptors to initiate a cascade of intracellular events that translate an external signal into a cellular response. These peptides regulate a vast array of physiological processes, including cell growth, differentiation, immune response, and hormonal secretion. They represent a rapidly expanding class of therapeutic agents in regenerative and longevity medicine, modulating key cellular pathways.
Origin
The concept is rooted in molecular biology and endocrinology, where peptides have long been recognized as a class of hormones and neurotransmitters. The term emphasizes their function in ‘signal transduction,’ the process by which a cell converts one kind of signal or stimulus into another. Examples include insulin, growth hormone, and various cytokines, highlighting their role as intercellular messengers.
Mechanism
These peptides bind to high-affinity G-protein coupled receptors or receptor tyrosine kinases on the cell membrane. This binding event induces a conformational change in the receptor, which activates secondary messenger molecules, such as cyclic AMP or protein kinases, inside the cell. The cascade ultimately leads to changes in gene expression, protein activity, or cellular function, effectively allowing the cell to respond to the external signal from the endocrine or nervous system.
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