PEPTIDE-BASED DRUGS: SYNTHESIS, MECHANISM OF ACTION, AND POTENTIAL FOR TREATING ENDOCRINE AND METABOLIC DISEASES

Abstract

Peptide drugs are new medicines with vast potential for the therapy of endocrine as well as metabolic disorders since they are highly specific, less toxic, and have the capability to easily mimic natural biological processes. In our research, new peptide synthesis techniques such as Solid-Phase Peptide Synthesis (SPPS) and Native Chemical Ligation (NCL) were explored, which significantly increased peptide yield, purity, and structural integrity.Methods of characterization like mass spectrometry, HPLC, and circular dichroism confirmed the purity and bioactivity of the peptides prepared. Drug formulation strategies by nanoparticle systems, liposomes, and PLGA microspheres efficiently improved peptide stability, bioavailability, and sustained release. In vitro experiments established improved receptor targeting, improved insulin secretion, and extended peptide action in cell models, while in vivo experiments in diabetic rodent models established improved glycemic control and metabolic regulation. Chemical modification with the incorporation of PEGylation and cyclization effectively improved peptide half-life and reduced vulnerability to proteolytic degradation. Future research needs to focus on maximizing oral delivery of peptides and using AI-guided peptide design for drug targeting. These advances underscore the therapeutic promise of peptide drugs as effective treatments for complex endocrine and metabolic diseases