peptidische

Peptidische is a Dutch adjectival form meaning peptide-related. In Dutch scientific usage, peptidische is used to describe phenomena, compounds, or processes associated with peptides, the short chains of amino acids that are the building blocks of proteins. Examples appear in terms such as peptidische binding (peptide bond), peptidische hormonen (peptide hormones), and peptidische medicijnen (peptide medicines). The term helps distinguish peptide-level biology and chemistry from longer proteins or non-peptide molecules.

Peptides are defined as short polymers of amino acids linked by amide bonds. They range from dipeptides and tripeptides to longer polypeptides and small proteins. Peptides have diverse roles in biology, including functioning as hormones (such as insulin), neurotransmitters and neuromodulators (like substance P and endorphins), antimicrobial agents, and signaling molecules. Many peptides are produced ribosomally and then modified post-translationally.

In research and industry, peptidische methods cover synthesis, analysis, and application. Chemical synthesis, especially solid-phase peptide synthesis, enables rapid production of defined peptides and libraries. Analytical techniques such as mass spectrometry and chromatography are used for sequencing and quantification. Peptide-based drugs, vaccines, and diagnostics are active areas of pharmaceutical development. In materials science, peptide motifs are used to create self-assembling materials and bio-inspired surfaces. The field also includes peptidomimetics—modified peptides designed to improve stability and pharmacokinetic properties.