The life-saving discovery of insulin in 1920 transformed the treatment of diabetes. Primarily isolated from natural sources, this 51-amino acid molecule was the first protein-focused therapy to be tested clinically and made commercially available.
Ever since then, the biotherapeutic landscape has shifted drastically. Between 2010 and 2019, 80 biological licenses were applied, and 289 new molecular entities obtained health industry approvals. In conjunction with that, the pharmaceutical space is also growing.
A massive prop to that growth goes to peptides. Many researchers actively buy peptides to carry on their research and contribute to this revolution in the pharma industry.
The distinct properties of these peptides lie between small molecules and large proteins. This blog will look at how therapeutic peptides can revolutionize the pharma sector.
1. Advantages over small molecules
Peptide drugs come with many advantages over small molecules. It includes heightened target potency and specificity. This specificity generally results in fewer side effects because of the decreased interactions with the unintended targets.
The side chain diversity in peptides gives a broad spectrum of probable targets. Additionally, peptides typically exhibit a more predictable metabolism than small molecules.
2. Precision and targeted mechanisms
One of the most vital traits of therapeutic peptides is their ability to target specific receptors and pathways within the body ideally. In contrast to conventional small molecule drugs that can interact with various targets, peptides can be designed for high specificity.
This targeted approach reduces the off-target effects and enhances the therapeutic outcomes, making peptides highly valuable for conditions needing precise intervention.
3. Diverse applications over therapeutic areas
These peptides have various applications across a wide range of therapeutic areas. Their authority to mimic natural biological procedures enables them to function as enzymes, hormones, or inhibitors, granting innovative solutions for complex health conditions.
This versatility allows pharma companies to expand their product pipelines and address unmet medical needs.
By investing in peptide research and development, organizations can create a wide array of products that cater to different market segments, enhancing market presence and growth potential.
4. Better drug delivery technologies
The advancements in drug delivery systems have massively enhanced the bioavailability, stability, and efficacy of therapeutic peptides. Liposomes, conjugation techniques, and other innovative technologies have overcome the conventional challenges concerning peptide degradation and poor membrane permeability. These delivery systems ensure that peptides reach the intended targets in the body more effectively, organizing the therapeutic outcomes.
5. Cost efficiency and accelerated development
The development of therapeutic peptides can be more streamlined and cost-effective than conventional drug development. The peptides can be synthesized using well-established solid-phase synthesized methods. The similarity of naturally happening compounds typically results in favourable safety profiles. For pharma companies, it means less time-to-market and lower development costs.
Wrapping Up
As you can see, therapeutic peptides represent a revolutionary shift in the pharma industry, providing versatile and precise options. We have come a long way since the inception of the peptide revolution in the pharma sector. If you are too taking part in this revolution and looking to have access to peptides for research, check out Lotilabs today!
