Biochemically Important Peptides

Oxytocin (9)

• Uterus-Contracting Hormone

• also stimulates lactation

Vasopression (ADH or antidiuretic hormone)

Enhances reabsorption of free water and plays a role in Blood pressure control

Enkephalins (5)

• pain killers

• neuromodulators

• in the brain and spinal cord

• involved with pain perception, movement, mood, behavior, and neuroendocrine regulation

Glutathione (3)

Found in most living cells as antioxidant & promote tissue growth

• TRH (Thyrotropin Releasing Hormone) (3)

• Hypothalmic Neurohormone

(governs release of thyrotropin) or TSH or thyroid-stimulating hormone

Angiotensin II (8)

• Pressor Agent

• Can increase blood pressure by vasoconstriction

• can also trigger thirst or the desire for salt

• Is responsible for the release of the pituitary gland's ADH

Somatostatin (14)

• Inhibits Growth Hormone Release

• used to treat ulcers

Bradykinin (9)

• Hypotensive Vasodilator

• acts on smooth muscle

Endothelin (21)

• Potent Vasoconstrictor

• structurally similar to some snake venoms

Mellitin (26)

• Honey Bee Venom

• used to treat rheumatism

Glucagon (29)

• Hyperglycemic Factor

• used as an anti-diabetic

Insulin (51)

• Pancreatic Hormone

• used in treatment of diabetes

triiodothyronine (T3)

stimulates the metabolism of almost every tissue in the body

prolactin or luteotropin

(protein that enable female mammals to produce milk) from the anterior pituitary.

• Dipeptide — 2

• Tripeptide — 3 or more

• Oligopeptide — 10 to 20

• Polypeptide — more than 20 (unbranched)

Number of Amino Acids of these Peptide bonds:

• Dipeptide

• Tripeptide

• Oligopeptide

• Polypeptide