Reference Guide

Peptide Glossary

A comprehensive dictionary of peptide terminology. Click any term to learn more about its definition and related articles.

A

Amino Acid

Organic compounds that serve as the building blocks of peptides and proteins. There are 20 standard amino acids that combine to form different peptide chains.

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B

Bacteriostatic Water

Sterile water containing 0.9% benzyl alcohol as a preservative. Used for reconstituting peptides because it prevents bacterial growth, allowing multi-dose vial use.

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Bioavailability

The proportion of a substance that enters circulation when introduced into the body and is able to have an active effect. Subcutaneous injection typically provides high bioavailability for peptides.

BPC-157

Body Protection Compound-157, a pentadecapeptide (15 amino acids) derived from human gastric juice. Researched for its potential tissue healing and protective properties.

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C

CJC-1295

A synthetic analogue of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). Available with or without DAC (Drug Affinity Complex) which extends its half-life.

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D

DAC (Drug Affinity Complex)

A modification added to certain peptides that significantly extends their half-life by binding to albumin in the bloodstream.

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Desensitization

A reduction in receptor sensitivity that can occur with continuous use of certain peptides. Often addressed through cycling protocols.

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G

GH Secretagogue

Compounds that stimulate the pituitary gland to release growth hormone. Includes peptides like Ipamorelin, GHRP-2, GHRP-6, and Sermorelin.

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GHRH (Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone)

A hormone released by the hypothalamus that stimulates the pituitary gland to produce and release growth hormone. Synthetic analogues like Sermorelin mimic this hormone.

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GHRP (Growth Hormone-Releasing Peptide)

A class of synthetic peptides that stimulate growth hormone release through the ghrelin receptor. Includes GHRP-2 and GHRP-6.

H

Half-Life

The time required for the concentration of a peptide in the body to decrease by half. Important for determining dosing frequency.

I

Ipamorelin

A selective growth hormone secretagogue that stimulates GH release with minimal effect on cortisol or prolactin. Popular for its clean side effect profile.

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L

Lyophilization

The freeze-drying process used to preserve peptides. Lyophilized peptides appear as a powder or cake in the vial and require reconstitution before use.

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M

Melanotan II

A synthetic analogue of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone. Researched for its effects on skin pigmentation and other physiological processes.

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P

Peptide Bond

The chemical bond that links amino acids together in a peptide chain. Formed through a dehydration synthesis reaction between the carboxyl group of one amino acid and the amino group of another.

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Peptide Stacking

The practice of using multiple peptides simultaneously to achieve synergistic effects. Requires careful consideration of timing and compatibility.

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PT-141 (Bremelanotide)

A synthetic peptide that acts on melanocortin receptors. Researched for its effects on sexual function and libido enhancement.

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R

Reconstitution

The process of adding bacteriostatic water to lyophilized (freeze-dried) peptide powder to create an injectable solution.

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S

Semaglutide

A GLP-1 receptor agonist peptide used for weight management and blood sugar control. Available as both injectable and oral formulations.

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Sermorelin

A synthetic analogue of the first 29 amino acids of human GHRH. Used to stimulate natural growth hormone production.

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Subcutaneous Injection

Injection into the fatty tissue layer beneath the skin. The most common administration method for peptides, typically in the abdomen, thigh, or deltoid area.

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T

TB-500 (Thymosin Beta-4)

A synthetic version of a naturally occurring peptide present in almost all human and animal cells. Researched for tissue repair and anti-inflammatory properties.

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Tesamorelin

A synthetic form of growth hormone-releasing hormone approved for reducing abdominal fat in certain conditions.

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Tirzepatide

A dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist peptide. Represents a newer class of weight management peptides with enhanced efficacy.

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