Metabolite
A breakdown product formed when the body metabolizes a peptide. Some metabolites are active and contribute to therapeutic effects; others are inactive waste products cleared by the kidneys or liver.
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Related Terms
An inactive or less active form of a peptide that is converted to the active form in the body through enzymatic or chemical processes. Prodrug design can improve oral bioavailability or targeting.
Hepatic metabolismThe breakdown of peptides by liver enzymes. Most peptides are degraded by proteases rather than CYP450 enzymes, which means fewer drug-drug interactions compared to small-molecule drugs.
Renal clearanceThe removal of a peptide from the blood by the kidneys. Smaller peptides (below ~60 kDa) are filtered by the glomerulus. PEGylation increases molecular size to reduce renal clearance and extend half-life.