Pharmacological and toxicological perspectives of bioactive peptides

Abstract

Bioactive peptides, from dietary and environmental sources, represent a promising front line for developing pharmaceuticals, functional foods, and a new generation of antibiotics. However, their therapeutic application necessitates a comprehensive understanding of their mechanisms of action and toxicological profile. Peptides exhibit effective mechanisms in combating bacterial infections and cancer therapy. However, findings reveal significant toxicological concerns, hemolytic activity, immunogenic reactions, and instability in the cellular environment that can lead to unpredictable metabolic byproducts. Furthermore, the dose and source of peptides are critical determinants of their safety and efficacy. Accordingly, the dual nature of bioactive peptides necessitates a balanced approach to enhance their efficacy while minimizing their potential harm. For these purposes, peptide-specific toxicological screening is essential for translating these natural compounds into safe and effective therapeutic agents. The purpose of this article is to comprehensively review the potential applications of bioactive peptides, their pharmacological mechanisms, and toxicological profiles to elucidate their efficacy and safety for use in food and medicine.

Keywords

Natural peptides / Toxicology / Pharmacology / Food-derived peptides / Peptide drugs / Bioactive peptides

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