Efficacy
The maximum therapeutic effect a peptide can produce regardless of dose. Distinct from potency — a peptide can be less potent but have greater efficacy, meaning it produces a larger maximum effect.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Efficacy?
Why is Efficacy important in peptide research?
Related Terms
The amount of a peptide required to produce a given effect. A more potent peptide achieves the same effect at a lower dose. Measured by EC50 — lower EC50 means higher potency.
Dose-response curveA graph showing the relationship between peptide dose and the magnitude of biological effect. Typically S-shaped (sigmoidal), with a threshold dose, linear range, and plateau at maximum effect.
EC50The concentration of a peptide that produces 50% of its maximum possible effect. A lower EC50 indicates greater potency. Used to compare the relative potency of different peptides acting on the same receptor.
Receptor agonistA molecule that binds to and activates a receptor, triggering a biological response. Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist; ipamorelin is a ghrelin receptor agonist.