Understanding Peptide Science
Peptides are small molecules built from amino acids, nature’s building blocks for proteins.
Because they’re shorter and simpler than full proteins, peptides can send highly targeted signals that influence how cells grow, repair, and communicate.
The functions of peptides
Cell Signaling
Peptides function as molecular messengers, transmitting information between cells and activating pathways that regulate growth, repair, metabolism, and communication throughout the body.
Immune and Protective Function
Certain peptides influence immune cell activity and cytokine signaling, helping researchers understand how the body maintains immune balance and responds to internal or external stressors.
Regulatory Function
Many peptides influence key biological systems, from hormonal feedback loops to gene expression and metabolic control which helps researchers understand how the body maintains balance.
Repair and Regeneration
Peptides are essential to cell growth, repair, collagen production and cellular renewal, making them significant in areas like wound healing and tissue repair.
Our board of experts
Dean Henry is a health entrepreneur and performance optimisation consultant recognised for advancing peptide science and functional health innovation. With a background in functional medicine and therapeutic nutrition, he has spent over a decade bridging research and real-world application. As founder of UAE Peptides LLC, Dn Research (UK), and UAE Drugstore LLC (registered with MOHAP), Dean provides high-quality research compounds and education across the UK, UAE, EU, and Middle East. A former athlete turned biohacker, he’s known for his evidence-based approach to peptides, bioregulators, and precision supplementation.
Dean Henry
Dr. Torbjörn Ogéus is a senior pain specialist and regenerative medicine expert with over 15 years of clinical experience. A former professional athlete turned researcher, he has pioneered non-surgical treatments for osteoarthritis and tendon injuries using growth factors, stem cells, and peptide-based regenerative protocols. Holding master’s degrees from the University of Edinburgh and Stanford University, he advises global companies in the regenerative field on clinical design. Dr. Ogéus has authored numerous peer-reviewed studies, including recent publications demonstrating cartilage regeneration and joint restoration through advanced cellular and peptide-driven approaches.
Dr. Torbjörn Ogéus
Dr. Melissa Grill-Petersen is a globally recognized visionary at the forefront of the longevity revolution. As the Founder of Human Longevity Global and Co- Founder & CEO of Peptide University, she is redefining what’s possible in health, medicine, and human flourishing. With over 25 years of expertise as a clinical educator, health futurist, and multidisciplinary strategist,
Dr. Melissa Grill-Petersen
Peptides: Bridging the gap between genetic information and functional biology
Because they are small, selective, and naturally compatible with human biochemistry, peptides allow researchers to:
- Map cell signaling pathways in detail
- Model disease processes at a molecular level
- Investigate new drug targets for regenerative and metabolic health
What are peptides?
How are peptides made?
Research peptides are usually synthesised using solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) — a laboratory method that links amino acids in a precise order to form the desired chain.
After synthesis, the compound is purified (often to ≥98% purity) and confirmed by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Mass Spectrometry (MS) before being used in research.
This ensures each molecule is structurally identical to the intended peptide sequence.
What are the different types of peptides?
Bioregulators: Ultra short peptides, typically 2-4 amino acids long that occur naturally In tissues and are thought to influence gene expression and protein synthesis.
Oligopeptides: Short chains of amino acids (2-20)
Polypeptides: Longer chains (20-50 amino acids)
What can peptides act as?
Hormones that regulate bodily functions.
Neurotransmitters that influence the brain and nervous system.
Molecular messengers that transmit signals between cells to coordinate processes like growth, immune response and repair.
Antimicrobials that inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria
Why is there so much interest in peptides now?
Peptides have attracted attention because they work in a very precise way inside the body. They’re made from the same building blocks as proteins (amino acids) and act like tiny messengers that tell cells what to do.
Scientists can now make these molecules in the lab with incredible accuracy, allowing them to study how different peptides affect things like energy, repair, skin, gut health, mood, and metabolism.
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What is peptide stacking?
Interested in specific research themes?
Explore our research areas page to learn where peptide science is being actively studied – from cellular regeneration to brain health and longevity
Skin and Hair
Reproductive Hormone Health
Longevity and Healthy Ageing
Immunity and Inflammatory Balance
Gut Health
Energy, Metabolism and Performance
Cellular Repair and Recovery
