School of Peptide

Peptides are short chains of amino acids - the same building blocks that make up protein, but in a shorter and more targeted sequence. Synthetic research peptides mimic naturally occurring sequences and can bind to specific receptors without the broad effects of whole proteins.

Key concepts: Amino acid structure, peptide bond formation, receptor binding mechanisms, synthetic vs. dietary peptides, cold-chain requirements.

Semaglutide targets the GLP-1 receptor exclusively. Tirzepatide is a dual GLP-1/GIP agonist with broader metabolic effects. Retatrutide is a triple agonist (GLP-1, GIP, glucagon) - the most advanced in this class.

Key concepts: GLP-1 mechanism, receptor selectivity, published study outcomes, half-life, reconstitution.

BPC-157 is a 15-amino acid sequence studied for tendon, ligament and gastrointestinal repair. TB-500 is studied for angiogenesis and broader cellular regeneration. Together they form the Wolverine Stack with complementary mechanisms.

Key concepts: BPC-157 mechanism, TB-500 mechanism, injectable vs. oral BPC-157, Wolverine Stack rationale, storage.

GHK-Cu (Glycine-Histidine-Lysine copper complex) stimulates the production of collagen types I, II and III, glycosaminoglycans and decorin. It has antioxidant properties and extensive in-vitro and in-vivo research backing.

Key concepts: Copper peptide biology, collagen synthesis, wound healing, topical vs. systemic research, skin ageing science.

Lyophilised peptides require bacteriostatic water for reconstitution. Inject water slowly down the vial wall, swirl gently - do not shake. After reconstitution store at 2–8°C and use within 28–30 days. Never freeze reconstituted peptides.

Key concepts: Bacteriostatic water, reconstitution steps, post-reconstitution storage, cold-chain handling.

Research peptides in South Africa fall under the Medicines and Related Substances Act (Act 101 of 1965) administered by SAHPRA. Most research peptides are not registered medicines. Purchasing for personal research is not explicitly prohibited but sits in a legal grey area.

Key concepts: SAHPRA classification, Medicines Act, research use designation, responsible researcher guidelines.

Selank is a synthetic analogue of tuftsin studied for anxiolytic and nootropic effects in animal models. Semax is derived from ACTH and studied for neuroprotection, cognitive enhancement, and recovery from neurological stress in research contexts.

Key concepts: Tuftsin mechanism, ACTH fragments, BDNF pathway, anxiety and cognition research, current regulatory status.

Many research peptides including BPC-157, TB-500, GHRPs and GLP-1 agonists appear on the WADA Prohibited List. Competitive athletes are subject to strict liability - not knowing a substance is prohibited is not an accepted defence. Verify every compound before any use.

Key concepts: WADA Prohibited List categories, SAIDS in South Africa, therapeutic use exemptions, strict liability rules, verification resources.

Responsible peptide research starts with defining your research question, understanding the compound, verifying purity with a COA, establishing safe storage, and documenting observations. Sourcing from a reputable supplier with third-party testing is non-negotiable.

Key concepts: COA verification, third-party testing, research documentation, sourcing red flags, building a responsible research framework.