The specific molecular actions by which exogenous peptides exert beneficial physiological effects, often involving high-affinity binding to specific cell surface receptors to modulate signal transduction pathways. These mechanisms are frequently designed to mimic or enhance the action of endogenous hormones or growth factors in a targeted manner, supporting tissue repair or metabolic balance. They offer precise signaling intervention.
Origin
This field stems from biochemistry and pharmaceutical science, focusing on short chains of amino acids as targeted signaling agents. The term “therapeutic” denotes their application toward restoring or optimizing health parameters, often by bypassing issues of receptor downregulation common with traditional hormone replacement. It highlights specificity in biological modulation.
Mechanism
Peptides typically operate by activating specific G-protein coupled receptors or other transmembrane proteins, initiating a cascade that alters cellular transcription or enzyme activity. For instance, certain peptides can stimulate the pituitary to increase endogenous GH secretion or modulate adipocyte function via direct receptor interaction. Their short half-lives often necessitate strategic dosing to maintain the desired physiological signal without causing chronic receptor saturation.
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