peptide
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Definition
Noun: A short chain of amino acids linked by peptide bonds. Peptides are fundamental components of cells and perform a wide range of biological functions. They are typically formed by the partial breakdown (hydrolysis) of larger protein molecules or synthesized in the body.
Usage
Peptides are a core subject in biochemistry and molecular biology. The word is used to describe these biomolecules in scientific contexts, including nutrition, medicine, and skincare. * In biochemistry, researchers study how peptides function as signaling molecules. * Some dietary supplements contain collagen peptides for skin health. * The laboratory synthesized a specific peptide to test its antibiotic properties.
Examples
- Scientific Context: "Insulin is a peptide hormone that regulates blood sugar levels."
- Nutrition/Health: "The drink is fortified with bioactive peptides derived from milk."
- General Explanation: "A peptide is like a small piece of a protein, often with its own specific activity."
Advanced Usage
- "Peptide bond": The specific chemical bond (C(O)NH) that links the carboxyl group of one amino acid to the amino group of another, forming the backbone of peptides and proteins.
- "Peptide sequence": The precise order of amino acids in a peptide chain, which determines its structure and function.
Variants and Related Words
- Polypeptide (noun): A longer, continuous chain of amino acids. Proteins are made of one or more polypeptides.
- Dipeptide/Tripeptide (noun): A peptide containing exactly two or three amino acids, respectively.
- Peptidic (adjective): Relating to or of the nature of a peptide (e.g., peptidic structure).
Synonyms
- Amino acid chain
- Oligopeptide (specifically for a short peptide)
Related Phrases and Compounds
- Signal peptide: A short peptide sequence that directs the transport of a protein within a cell.
- Antimicrobial peptide: A class of peptides that are part of the innate immune response, capable of killing microbes.
Noun
- amide combining the amino group of one amino acid with the carboxyl group of another; usually obtained by partial hydrolysis of protein