What are Peptides?

  • Definition: Short chains of 2‑50 amino acids, the building blocks of proteins.
  • Contrast with Proteins: Proteins have ≥50 amino acids and complex 3‑D folding; peptides are simpler and more flexible.

Biological Role of Endogenous Peptides

  • Act as hormones, neurotransmitters, and local regulators.
  • Regulate metabolism, immune response, tissue repair, appetite, and growth.

Peptide Therapy – Concept

  • Utilises synthetic or naturally derived peptides to replicate the body’s signalling pathways.
  • Lock‑and‑key binding to specific cell receptors → targeted response with fewer systemic side‑effects.
  • Route of Administration: Primarily sub‑cutaneous injections (peptides are degraded in the GI tract).

Major Clinical Applications

  • Diabetes & Obesity: GLP‑1 analogues (e.g., exenatide, semaglutide) improve glycaemic control and reduce appetite.
  • Oncology: Peptide‑drug conjugates target tumour‑specific receptors, enhancing drug delivery precision.
  • Infertility & Growth Disorders: Gonadotropin‑releasing hormone (GnRH) analogues, growth‑hormone‑releasing peptides.
  • Regenerative Medicine: Peptides promoting muscle, nerve and tendon repair.
  • Dermatology, Wound Healing, Osteoporosis, Cardiovascular diseases, Viral infections – emerging research areas.

Safety Concerns & Misuse

  • Bio‑hacking Trend: Unapproved “research chemicals” sold online are self‑administered without clinical validation.
  • Potential Risks: Endocrine imbalance, metabolic disturbances, cardiovascular events, allergic reactions.
  • Regulatory Gap: Lack of stringent oversight for many peptide products marketed as supplements.

Policy & Regulatory Implications

  • Need for stringent drug approval processes under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940.
  • Pharmacovigilance mechanisms to monitor adverse events.
  • Coordination between DCGI, CDSCO, and International regulatory bodies for cross‑border control of illicit peptide sales.
  • Public awareness campaigns on the dangers of self‑injection and counterfeit products.

Constitutional/Legal Provisions (if applicable)

  • Article 21 – Right to health; state’s duty to ensure safe medical products.
  • National Health Policy 2017 – Emphasises regulation of emerging therapies.

Key Take‑aways for UPSC

  • Understand peptide structure, therapeutic scope, and administration.
  • Recognise the regulatory challenges and public health implications.
  • Relate peptide therapy to broader themes of Science & Technology, Health, and Governance.