(pep′tīd″)

[pept(ic) + -ide]
A compound containing two or more linked amino acids.

amyloid beta peptide

ABBR: Abeta A toxic peptide that deposits in neurons in patients with Alzheimer disease. It can also damage other organs, as by accumulating in the heart and contributing to cardiomyopathy. The enzyme neprilysin degrades amyloid beta.
SEE: amyloid (2); SEE: neprilysin

antibody to deamidated gliadin peptide

An antibody test to screen patients for celiac disease. It is used primarily in patients who have IgA deficiency because these patients may have a falsely negative antitissue transglutaminase IgA (anti-Ttg) antibody test.

atrial natriuretic peptide

ABBR: ANP SEE: Atrial natriuretic factor.

brain natriuretic peptide

SEE: B-type natriuretic peptide.

B-type natriuretic peptide

ABBR: BNP A hormone secreted by the left or right ventricle of the heart. Concentration of this peptide in the bloodstream rises during episodes of decompensated heart failure.
SEE: brain natriuretic peptide

cell-penetrating peptide

A peptide that readily crosses cell membranes and therefore can influence cellular functions or carry other molecules that can directly or indirectly perform the same tasks.

endogenous opioid peptide

Any of a group of more than 15 substances present in the brain, certain endocrine glands, and the gastrointestinal tract. They have morphine-like analgesic properties, behavioral effects, and neurotransmitter and neuromodulator functions. Included in this group of chemicals are endorphins, enkephalins, and dynorphin.

glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide

A hormone released by cells in the upper gastrointestinal tract in response to sugary or fatty meals. It stimulates beta cells in the pancreas to secrete insulin.

immunodominant peptide

Any of the peptides having a strong affinity for binding with class I or II histocompatibility antigens and for stimulating a response by T lymphocytes. Immunodominant peptides are produced by antigen processing, are expressed on the surface of macrophages and other antigen-presenting cells, and may be useful both in desensitizing people to allergens and in vaccine production.
SYN: SEE: immunodominant epitope

natriuretic peptide

Any peptide that stimulates the kidneys to excrete salt and water.

peptide YY

An appetite-regulating protein released by L cells of the mucosa of the gastrointestinal tract in response to a meal. It binds to cells in the arcuate nucleus of the brain, decreases the desire to eat, and creates a feeling of fullness.