Peptides are short chains of amino acids (the building blocks of proteins) that function as “messengers” in the body, regulating key processes such as metabolism, cell repair, hormone production, and inflammation control.
Peptides are smaller than proteins and can be tailored to carry out specific roles in the body — from improving metabolic function to supporting tissue repair. Because of their size and structure, many can work precisely at a cellular level, often mimicking natural messenger molecules like hormones or neurotransmitters. They can be powerful tools in helping the body respond better to exercise, stress, ageing, and recovery.
What Are Peptides?
Peptides occur naturally in the body, but their levels decline with age. This decline can manifest in decreased energy levels, slower healing, reduced muscle mass, and weakened immune responses. Peptide therapy uses selected or modified peptides to help patients with enhanced metabolic health, accelerated tissue repair, improved skin quality, and optimised immune function, among other advantages.
Although not readily used in the UK due to ongoing regulatory ambiguities, they are increasingly prescribed in other countries and subject to intensive ongoing research. Topical, cosmetic-grade peptides are often integrated into advanced skincare products.
Peptide therapy is recognised for its high safety and low side-effect profile compared to traditional medications or supplements. However, it’s important that peptides are prescribed and monitored by a qualified doctor to ensure safe use and minimise health risks.
The Peptides You’ll Know About
Insulin was discovered in 1921 by Banting and Best, marking a revolution in diabetes care. Frederick Sanger went on to discover the exact amino acid sequence, earning the first of his 2 Nobel Prizes. The first successful and life-saving injection of insulin was given to 14-year-old Leonard Thompson, who had type 1 diabetes. It’s remarkable to think how many lives this crucial peptide has saved!
Next, it’s difficult not to know about semaglutide (branded Ozempic or Wegovy) and tirzepatide (branded Mounjaro). Semaglutide works on GLP-1 receptors and tirzepatide on GLP-1 and GIP receptors. Recently a new peptide called retatrutide has been developed which, in our opinion, will be shown to have even more enhanced effects. This works on metabolic health, appetite control, fat loss and glucose regulation. It does this by not only working on GLP-1 and GIP receptors, but Glucagon Receptors. The ‘face off’ interaction of opposing peptides on GLP-1, GIP and glucagon receptors – is fascinating.
How Are Peptides Are Used in Longevity And Regenerative Medicine?
Peptide therapy has gained prominence in longevity and regenerative medicine due to its ability to restore age-related decline at a cellular level. Key actions include:
-
Growth hormone secretagogues – preserve or increase muscle, improve fat metabolism, and improve sleep.
-
Mitochondrial-enhancing peptides – improve energy production and metabolic health.
-
Tissue repair peptides – accelerate recovery after injury, particularly in tendons, ligaments, and joints.
-
Skin-enhancing peptides – for improving elasticity, hydration, and reversing visible ageing.
These therapies are often personalised following health checks and used in combinations or cycles with active medical guidance.
The Promise and Responsibility of Peptide Therapy
Peptides are an exciting frontier in bespoke modern medicine — offering targeted, biologically intelligent support for metabolism, repair, energy, and longevity. From insulin to semaglutide, and from BPC-157 to GHK-Cu, peptides are reshaping how we think about ageing and optimising health. They have great potential — but need to be used under strict medical supervision and as part of a medical strategy for long-term health.”
