Glossary

Key terms and definitions used throughout Peptide Atlas. Tap any term to learn more.

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

A

Amino Acid

The building blocks of peptides and proteins. There are 20 standard amino acids that combine in different sequences to create the vast diversity of peptides and proteins in biology.

Angiogenesis

The formation of new blood vessels from existing ones. This process is crucial for wound healing and tissue repair, and is one of the mechanisms by which some recovery peptides may work.

B

BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor)

A protein that supports the survival, growth, and maintenance of neurons. Higher BDNF levels are associated with better cognitive function, memory, and neural resilience.

C

A pharmacy that creates customized medications by combining or altering ingredients to meet specific patient needs. Many peptides are obtained through compounding pharmacies under clinician prescription.

G

GHRH (Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone)

A hormone produced by the hypothalamus that signals the pituitary gland to release growth hormone. Several peptides (CJC-1295, Sermorelin) are synthetic analogs of GHRH.

Growth Hormone (GH)

A hormone produced by the pituitary gland that plays key roles in growth, body composition, cell repair, and metabolism. Many peptides work by stimulating the body's natural GH production.

H

Half-Life

The time it takes for half of a substance to be eliminated from the body. A longer half-life means the compound stays active longer, which affects dosing frequency.

I

IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor 1)

A hormone produced primarily by the liver in response to growth hormone. IGF-1 mediates many of GH's effects on tissues and is used as a blood marker to assess GH status.

M

Mechanism of Action

The specific biological process by which a peptide or drug produces its effects. Understanding mechanism of action helps predict both benefits and potential side effects.

N

Neuroprotection

The preservation of neuronal structure and function. Neuroprotective compounds aim to protect brain cells from damage, degeneration, or death.

P

Peptide

A short chain of amino acids (typically 2-50) linked by peptide bonds. Peptides are smaller than proteins and can act as signaling molecules in the body, influencing various biological processes.

Pituitary Gland

A small gland at the base of the brain that produces several important hormones, including growth hormone. Many peptides work by stimulating the pituitary to release its hormones naturally.

Protein

A large, complex molecule made up of long chains of amino acids (typically more than 50). Proteins perform a vast array of functions in the body, from structural support to enzymatic catalysis.

R

Receptor

A protein on or inside a cell that receives and responds to chemical signals (like peptides). When a peptide binds to its receptor, it triggers a specific biological response inside the cell.

S

Secretagogue

A substance that promotes the secretion of another substance. Growth hormone secretagogues are compounds that stimulate the pituitary gland to release growth hormone.

Subcutaneous Injection

An injection delivered into the fatty tissue just beneath the skin. This is the most common route of administration for peptides, as it allows for gradual absorption into the bloodstream.

T

Telomerase

An enzyme that can rebuild and extend telomeres. Most adult cells have very low telomerase activity, which is why telomeres shorten with age. Some peptides are studied for their potential to activate telomerase.

Telomere

Protective caps at the ends of chromosomes that shorten with each cell division. Telomere length is considered a marker of cellular aging, and some peptides are studied for their potential to maintain telomere length.