Peptide List, Uses, and Combinations

LL-37

LL-37 is an antimicrobial peptide from the cathelicidin family.

It is predominantly produced by immune and epithelial cells in response to infection or inflammation. LL-37 has been shown to have potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, supporting the body in combating a variety of illnesses such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. 

This peptide has been demonstrated to improve wound healing by increasing cell migration, angiogenesis, and the generation of growth factors, in addition to its antimicrobial activity. LL-37 dosage varies according to the condition being treated, and it can be coupled with other peptides.

Beta-defensins

Beta-defensins are an antimicrobial peptide family that plays critical roles in the immune system.

They are largely produced by epithelial cells and aid in the body’s defense against a variety of pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Beta-defensins act by compromising pathogen membrane integrity, resulting in their destruction.

They also possess immune control properties, helping to regulate the immune system to respond properly and reduce inflammation. The dosage of beta-defensins required to achieve this will vary depending on the condition being treated. Beta-defensins can be used in conjunction with other peptides, such as LL-37.

Thymosin Alpha 1

Thymosin alpha 1 is a peptide with immune system-boosting properties. 

It plays an essential role in the maturation and differentiation of T cells, which are critical for adaptive immunity. Thymosin alpha 1 has been studied for its potential in treating various immune-related conditions, including viral infections, autoimmune disorders, and cancer.

It has also been shown to enhance vaccine efficacy by improving the immune response to antigens. The dosage of thymosin alpha 1 typically ranges from 1 to 2 mg per week, depending on the individual’s needs and the condition being treated. It can be combined with other peptides, such as LL-37 and beta-defensins, for synergistic effects.

Glutathione Peptides

Glutathione peptides, which are made up of three amino acids, have strong antioxidant capabilities. By neutralizing damaging free radicals, they help protect the body from oxidative stress.

Just as with other peptides, dosing for glutathione peptides will vary depending on an individual’s situation. However, the common range is from 100-600 mg per day. Depending on the desired effect, these peptides can be administered orally, topically, or intravenously.

Melanocortin Receptor Peptides

Melanocortin receptor peptides, such as Melanotan II, are utilized for a variety of purposes, including promoting skin tanning, suppressing hunger, and improving sexual performance.

They function by activating certain melanocortin receptors in the body, which results in a variety of physiological effects. Although there is a lack of scientific evidence, this family of peptides is believed to have a positive effect on muscle growth and recovery.

The dosage of melanocortin receptor peptides varies greatly based on the application and individual requirements. In most cases, a medical professional will need to be consulted to determine the ideal dosing. 

Copper Peptides (GHK-Cu)

Copper peptides, like GHK-Cu, are utilized to regenerate skin and fight aging. They aid in the stimulation of collagen formation, the reduction of inflammation, and the promotion of wound healing.

These peptides are generally used topically in skincare products at concentrations ranging from 0.5% to 5%. They can be coupled with other peptides like Matrixyl to boost skin regeneration.

Matrixyl

Matrixyl, also known as palmitoyl pentapeptide-4, is a synthetic peptide used to promote skin regeneration and anti-aging.

It promotes the formation of collagen, elastin, and other extracellular matrix proteins, which help in the maintenance of skin structure and suppleness.

Matrixyl has been proven to boost skin texture and firmness, as well as lessen the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It is frequently coupled with other peptides, such as copper peptides (GHK-Cu), to increase its effects. Topically, Matrixyl is generally used in skin care products in concentrations ranging from 0.5% to 5%, depending on the formulation and desired results.

Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-8)

Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, often known as Argireline, is a synthetic peptide with muscle-relaxing characteristics. Because of its ability to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, it is frequently referred to as “topical Botox.”

These peptides work by preventing the release of neurotransmitters that cause muscular spasms, resulting in a temporary relaxation of the facial muscles. This relaxation can help to smooth out wrinkles and fine lines, especially on the forehead and around the eyes. Argireline is commonly found in topical skincare treatments in quantities of roughly 10%. 

While Argireline may provide some immediate improvements in the appearance of wrinkles, the effects are only temporary, and regular use is required to maintain the results.

Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-3

Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-3, or Matrixyl, is a synthetic peptide with anti-aging characteristics utilized in cosmetic products. It promotes the formation of collagen, elastin, and other extracellular matrix proteins, which aid in the maintenance of skin structure and suppleness. These peptides have been found to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, enhance skin texture, and boost skin firmness by enhancing collagen formation.

Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-3 is typically applied topically in skincare products, often combined with other peptides like copper (GHK-Cu) to enhance its effects. 

The concentration of these peptides in skincare products can vary, depending on the formulation and desired results.

Ghrelin Agonists

Ghrelin agonists are synthetic peptides that imitate the effects of the natural hormone ghrelin, which regulates hunger and energy balance. Ghrelin agonists have been examined for their ability to promote weight gain and muscle growth, particularly in people suffering from chronic diseases such as cancer or AIDS, which cause severe weight loss and muscle atrophy.

Ghrelin agonists function by binding to the ghrelin receptor, which is found in many tissues such as the brain, pituitary gland, and gastrointestinal tract. 

This binding can enhance growth hormone release, increase appetite, and promote fat storage, resulting in weight gain and muscle building. 

When it comes to dosing, the amount required will vary greatly due to its range of applications. Before beginning any treatment with ghrelin agonists, it is critical to check with a healthcare expert because they may have potential side effects and interactions with other medications.

Adipotide

Keratin Peptides

Adipotide is a peptide that is commonly used in concert with diet and exercise to decrease body fat. It works by decreasing the blood flow to fat cells, resulting in a reduction in body fat. Adipotide peptide dosage varies depending on the unique use case and individual demands.

Keratin peptides are often used to promote strong hair. They are frequently found in hair care products and are administered topically. Keratin peptides can help increase hair strength, resilience, and overall look by improving the structural integrity of hair strands.

Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1

DPP-4 Inhibitors

Similar to Keratin peptides, Biotinyl tripeptide-1 is commonly found in hair care products that help stimulate hair growth and fortify hair follicles. It works by stimulating the hair follicle cells, resulting in greater hair growth and better hair quality. Biotinoyl tripeptide-1 is commonly used topically in numerous hair care products.

DPP-4 inhibitors are peptides used to regulate blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetic patients. They function by inhibiting the activity of the DPP-4 enzyme, which helps extend the activity of incretin hormones, which are important for reducing blood sugar levels. The dosage of DPP-4 inhibitors depends on the application and an individual’s specific needs.

GLP-1 Analogs

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analogs are a family of drugs used to help individuals with type 2 diabetes regulate their blood sugar levels. They are structurally identical to the natural incretin hormone GLP-1, which regulates glucose metabolism. 

GLP-1 analogs function by boosting pancreatic insulin production, decreasing glucagon release, and slowing gastric emptying, resulting in better blood sugar control. Exenatide (Byetta), liraglutide (Victoza), and semaglutide are examples of well-known GLP-1 analogs (Ozempic). 

These drugs are often given as injections and are used in conjunction with other diabetic therapies, such as oral medications and lifestyle changes.

IGF-1

IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor 1) is a hormone that has a similar structure to insulin. It is essential for childhood growth and development and continues to have anabolic effects in adulthood.

IGF-1 stimulates cell growth, differentiation, and survival and regulates glucose and lipid metabolism. IGF-1 may be used therapeutically to promote muscle growth, improve bone density, and aid in tissue healing. While substantial research is already done on IGF-1, more research is needed to fully understand the potential of this hormone. 

The use of IGF-1 as a treatment is still being researched, and it is critical to seek the advice of a healthcare professional before considering its use.

Growth Hormone-Releasing Peptides (GHRP)

Growth hormone-releasing peptides (GHRPs) are synthetic peptides that trigger the pituitary gland’s growth hormone production (GH). They have been demonstrated to boost muscular development, increase hunger, and aid the body’s overall growth and healing processes. GHRPs such as GHRP-2, GHRP-6, and ipamorelin are examples of GHRPs.

The dosage of GHRPs varies according to the peptide utilized and the individual’s demands. It is crucial to highlight that the usage of GHRPs is currently under investigation, and they should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare expert.

BPC-157

BPC-157, also known as body protection compound 157, is a synthetic peptide that has been shown to have various healing and regenerative properties.

It has been studied for its ability to aid in tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and accelerate wound healing. 

This synthetic peptide is thought to work by interacting with several cellular pathways involved in tissue repair and regeneration, including regulating growth factors and modulating inflammatory responses.

The dosage of BPC-157 typically ranges from 100 mcg to 500 mcg per day, depending on individual needs and goals.

Melanotan II

Melanotan II is a synthetic peptide that functions similarly to the natural hormone alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (-MSH). It works by increasing melanin production, the pigment responsible for skin color, resulting in a darker skin tone. 

This peptide has been studied for its possible use as a tanning agent as well as a treatment for some skin conditions, such as erythropoietic protoporphyria. Melanotan II dosage varies; however, it is usually given as an injection.

TB-500

The synthetic peptide TB-500, commonly known as thymosin beta-4, has been researched for its tissue repair and regeneration characteristics.

It has been demonstrated that it promotes cell migration, angiogenesis, and collagen deposition, all of which are required for wound healing and tissue repair. 

TB-500 is thought to work by influencing the expression of specific genes involved in tissue repair processes and interacting with the extracellular matrix, which provides structural support to cells and tissues. The weekly dose of TB-500 can range from 2.0 to 2.5 mg, with some requiring multiple doses each week for severe injury or surgery recovery.

B-type Natriuretic Peptide (BNP)

The heart secretes B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) in response to stretching or increasing pressure. It works as a vasodilator, relaxing blood vessels and lowering blood pressure. BNP also induces diuresis and natriuresis, which aid in reducing fluid retention in the body.

BNP levels in the blood can be elevated in the presence of heart failure, making it a useful diagnostic tool for clinicians. High doses of BNP or its synthetic counterpart, nesiritide, may be used to treat acute heart failure. 

This treatment seeks to relieve symptoms by increasing vasodilation and decreasing fluid excess in the body. The use of BNP as a treatment is normally reserved for severe instances and should only be delivered under the supervision of a healthcare practitioner.

Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide (VIP)

Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors

Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is well-known for its vasodilatory effects, which aid in the dilation of blood vessels and the improvement of blood flow. VIP may be used to treat some respiratory, gastrointestinal, and neurological diseases, though its application is currently being studied and is not extensively employed in clinical practice.

Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, rather than peptides, are a type of drug often used to treat high blood pressure and other cardiovascular diseases. They act by inhibiting the enzyme that converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a strong vasoconstrictor. This lowers blood pressure and lowers the risk of heart problems.

Thymosin β4

Thymosin 4 is a peptide that is used for tissue repair and regeneration. It has been demonstrated that it promotes cell migration, angiogenesis, and collagen deposition, all of which are required for wound healing and tissue repair. Thymosin 4 dosage varies according to the individual’s needs and unique goals.

Conclusion

BPC 157 is a naturally occurring substance that is still early in the initial phases of investigation. So far, it has shown potential benefits in the areas of wound healing, anti-inflammatory properties, joint health, intestinal health, and the treatment and management of chronic pain and disease. Within the next few years, doctors and patients could have another tool in their belts to deal with injury and disease that may improve the quality of life for millions of people.

If you plan to take BPC 157, it is important to consult with a medical professional to ensure that this treatment is safe and effective for your health goals.