Peptide is a short-chain biological molecule composed of 2 to 50 amino acids connected by peptide bonds (amide bonds). It is between amino acids and proteins and has unique biological activity.

Core features of peptides

1. Small molecular weight (usually <10kDa)

Easier to be absorbed by the human body than protein (no need for complex decomposition)

Can penetrate the skin barrier or intestines and enter the blood directly (such as weight loss peptides can take effect by oral administration)

2. High biological activity

Specific amino acid sequences can accurately regulate physiological functions (such as suppressing appetite and promoting fat decomposition)

For example: GLP-1 analogs in weight loss peptides can delay gastric emptying and increase satiety

3. Strong targeting

Acts on target cell receptors (such as leptin receptors and growth hormone receptors) as accurately as a "key"

Peptides vs proteins vs amino acids

Common mechanisms of action of weight loss peptides
Appetite suppression (such as glucagon-like peptide-1 GLP-1)

Acts on the hypothalamic satiety center to reduce the secretion of ghrelin

Metabolism activation (such as growth hormone releasing peptide GHRP-6)

Increases basal metabolic rate and promotes fat oxidation

Lipolysis (such as pro-opiomelanocortin derived peptide POMC)

Activates lipase and accelerates triglyceride decomposition

Why are peptide weight loss products popular?

High safety: substances existing in the human body (such as many weight loss peptides mimic endogenous peptide structures)

Efficiency advantage: Compared with traditional ingredients (such as L-carnitine), it has stronger targeting and fewer side effects

Technology endorsement: Success stories of giants such as Novo Nordisk (semaglutide) and Eli Lilly (telpotide)