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Peptide signaling

Peptide signaling refers to the process by which small chains of amino acids, known as peptides, communicate between cells to regulate various biological functions. These signaling peptides can act as hormones, neurotransmitters, or growth factors, influencing processes like metabolism, immune response, and cellular growth. When a peptide binds to a specific receptor on a target cell, it triggers a cascade of reactions that lead to a physiological response. Essentially, peptide signaling is crucial for maintaining bodily functions and ensuring that cells can respond appropriately to changes in their environment.