Application of Synthetic Peptides

Synthetic peptides are widely used for the following purposes:
- To verify the structure of naturally occurring peptides as determined by degradation techniques
- To study the relationship between structure and activity of biologically active protein and peptides and establish their molecular mechanisms
- To develop new peptide-based immunogens, hormones, vaccines, etc

Peptide Drugs

Peptide drugs are either naturally-occurring peptides or altered natural peptides. There are many naturally-occurring peptides that are biologically active. If a patient does not naturally produce a peptide that they need, this peptide can be synthesized and given to them. In addition, the amino acids in an active peptide can be altered to make analogues of the original peptide. If the analogue is more biochemical active than the original peptide it is known as an agonist and if it has the reverse effect is known as an antagonist.

Diagnostic Peptides

Peptides can be designed that change color under certain conditions, and these can be used for diagnostic purposes. For example, a chromogenic peptide substrate can readily detect the presence, absence and varying blood levels of enzymes that control blood pressure and blood clotting ability.

Here you have an access to the related page: Peptides in Drug Discovery