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Peptide Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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peptide

[หˆpeptสŒษชd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

biological compounds

Peptides are short chains of amino acids linked together by peptide bonds. They play a crucial role in biological processes such as signaling, enzyme function, and immune response.

Synonyms

amino acid chain, polypeptide, protein fragment.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
peptide

Commonly used in biochemistry to describe short chains of amino acid monomers linked by peptide bonds, usually consisting of 2-50 amino acids.

  • Scientists are synthesizing a new peptide to test its efficacy against bacterial infections
protein fragment

Refers to parts of a protein, usually obtained through the breakdown or cleavage of a whole protein.

  • The researchers studied the protein fragment to understand its role in cellular signaling pathways
amino acid chain

A more general term to describe any length of amino acids linked together, whether in the form of a short peptide or a long polypeptide.

  • The amino acid chain needs to be accurately sequenced to determine the protein structure
polypeptide

Used to describe longer chains of amino acids, generally more than 50, and often refers to components of proteins.

  • The polypeptide chain folds into a specific three-dimensional structure to form a functional protein

Examples of usage

  • Many hormones are peptides, including insulin and oxytocin.
  • Peptides can be used in skincare products for their anti-aging properties.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Biology

  • Peptides are essential for various biological functions, including hormone regulation, immune response, and cell signaling.
  • There are thousands of naturally occurring peptides in the human body, each serving unique functions.

Health and Medicine

  • Peptide therapy is being researched as a way to treat various conditions, such as diabetes and certain cancers.
  • Some peptides act as messengers in the body, helping cells communicate and coordinate activities.

Pop Culture

  • Peptides have become popular in skincare products, often marketed as youth-enhancing or anti-aging.

Technology

  • Synthetic peptides are being developed in laboratories for drug discovery and vaccine development.
  • Advancements in biotechnology have made it easier to create custom peptides for specific medical applications.

Origin of 'peptide'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek word 'peptos', meaning digestible, reflecting its role in protein synthesis.
  • It was first used in scientific literature in the late 19th century as researchers began to understand protein structures.

The word 'peptide' originates from the Greek word 'peptรณs', meaning 'digested'. The term was first introduced in 1902 by Emil Fischer, a German chemist, to describe the chemical structure of proteins. Peptides have since become a vital area of study in biochemistry and pharmaceutical research, leading to significant advances in medicine.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,269 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.