peptide biosynthetic process

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The chemical reactions and pathways resulting in the formation of peptides, compounds of 2 or more (but usually less than 100) amino acids where the alpha carboxyl group of one is bound to the alpha amino group of another. This may include the translation of a precursor protein and its subsequent processing into a functional peptide. [GOC:dph, GOC:jl]

Peptide biosynthesis is a complex and highly regulated process that involves the synthesis of peptides from amino acids. It begins with the transcription of a gene encoding a protein into messenger RNA (mRNA). The mRNA molecule is then translated into a polypeptide chain by ribosomes, which read the genetic code and link amino acids together in a specific sequence. The newly synthesized polypeptide chain undergoes a series of modifications, including folding, glycosylation, and phosphorylation, to form the mature protein. Some proteins are further processed to generate peptides, which are shorter chains of amino acids.

The process of peptide biosynthesis can be divided into several stages:

1. **Transcription:** The DNA sequence encoding a protein is copied into an mRNA molecule. This process is catalyzed by RNA polymerase.
2. **Translation:** The mRNA molecule is translated into a polypeptide chain by ribosomes. Ribosomes read the genetic code encoded in the mRNA and link amino acids together in a specific sequence.
3. **Folding:** The polypeptide chain folds into a three-dimensional structure. This process is influenced by a variety of factors, including the amino acid sequence, the cellular environment, and the presence of chaperone proteins.
4. **Post-translational modifications:** Once the protein has folded, it can undergo a variety of post-translational modifications. These modifications can include glycosylation, phosphorylation, acetylation, and ubiquitination. These modifications can alter the protein's function, stability, and localization.
5. **Peptide processing:** Some proteins are further processed to generate peptides. This process can involve cleavage of the protein by proteases or other enzymes.

Peptide biosynthesis is essential for a wide range of cellular processes, including protein synthesis, signal transduction, and immune response. Disruptions in peptide biosynthesis can lead to a variety of diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and autoimmune disorders.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (4)