Peptide Database

Motilin-related peptide · Growth hormone secretagogue

Ghrelin is a 28-amino-acid acylated peptide hormone primarily produced by gastric X/A-like cells and is the endogenous ligand for the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R1a). It stimulates GH release, increases appetite and food intake, promotes energy storage, and modulates sleep and mood. Research explores ghrelin axis manipulation for obesity, cachexia, heart failure, and neurodegenerative diseases.

Glucagon-like Peptide-1 · GLP-1(7-37)

GLP-1 is an endogenous incretin hormone secreted by intestinal L-cells in response to nutrient ingestion. It enhances glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppresses glucagon, slows gastric emptying, and signals satiety to the hypothalamus. Native GLP-1 has a half-life of only 1–2 minutes due to DPP-4 degradation, which drove the development of DPP-4-resistant analogs (semaglutide, liraglutide, exenatide) that are now major drug classes.

NT · NTS

Neurotensin is a 13-amino-acid neuropeptide found in the brain and GI tract. Centrally, it modulates dopamine circuits, acts as an endogenous antipsychotic-like agent, and is analgesic. Peripherally, it inhibits gastric acid secretion, stimulates pancreatic secretion, and promotes fat absorption. Research explores neurotensin analogs for pain, schizophrenia, Parkinson's disease, and metabolic regulation.

Alpha-Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone · α-Melanotropin

α-MSH is an endogenous 13-amino-acid peptide derived from POMC (pro-opiomelanocortin). It activates MC1R to stimulate melanin production in skin, MC4R to suppress appetite and regulate energy expenditure, and MC3R/MC1R to exert potent anti-inflammatory effects. It is the parent compound from which many synthetic melanocortin analogs (Melanotan I, II, PT-141, KPV) were derived and remains a cornerstone of melanocortin pharmacology research.