Chapter 2 · The Categories

The Categories, Explained

Free Library · Chapter 2 · 9 minute read

You do not need to memorize a hundred compounds. You need the map. Once you can place any peptide into a family, the whole field stops feeling overwhelming. Researchers tend to group peptides by the biological systems their study focuses on.

The major research families

FamilyWhat the research exploresOften-discussed examples
Metabolic / GLPenergy, metabolism, and glucose-signaling pathwaysGLP-1, MOTS-c, AOD-9604
Healing & recoverytissue and gastrointestinal research modelsBPC-157, TB-500, KPV
GH secretagoguesthe growth-hormone signaling axisCJC-1295, Ipamorelin, Sermorelin
Cosmetic & skinskin, collagen, and pigment researchGHK-Cu, AHK-Cu, Melanotan
Longevity & cellularaging and mitochondrial pathwaysEpitalon, NAD+, SS-31
Cognitive & neuroneurological and behavioral researchSemax, Selank, DSIP
Sexual healthmelanocortin-pathway researchPT-141

How to use the map

When you meet a new name, your first question is simply: which family? That single answer tells you roughly what kind of research it belongs to and what conversations surround it. A new compound stops being intimidating the moment you can place it.

Families overlap — and that is normal

These boundaries are useful, not rigid. Some compounds are studied across more than one family, and some research blends families deliberately. The map is a starting point for understanding, not a rulebook. As you read more, you will naturally refine it.

Try this: next time you see a peptide mentioned anywhere, pause and place it in one of the seven families above before reading another word. That habit alone will put you ahead of most people in the space.

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For educational and research purposes only. This content is not medical advice. Compounds referenced are research use only and not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Free Peptide University does not sell compounds.