nounIntermediate
Definition
The smallest possible peptide: exactly two amino acids joined by a single peptide bond. Examples include carnosine (β-Ala-His), aspartame (Asp-Phe-OMe), and anserine (β-Ala-1-methyl-His).

Detailed Explanation

Dipeptides are produced both by directed synthesis and as intermediates during protein digestion. The human intestine absorbs many dipeptides intact via the PepT1 transporter (SLC15A1), often more efficiently than free amino acids. This is why dipeptide and tripeptide supplements can have higher bioavailability than equivalent free amino acid mixtures. Bioactive dipeptides include carnosine (muscle buffer and antioxidant), balenine/ophidine (found in whale and snake muscle), and various ACE-inhibitory dipeptides from food proteins (Val-Tyr, Ile-Pro) that may have mild blood-pressure-lowering effects.

Key Facts

  • Dipeptides are produced both by directed synthesis and as intermediates during protein digestion
  • The human intestine absorbs many dipeptides intact via the PepT1 transporter (SLC15A1), often more efficiently than free amino acids
  • This is why dipeptide and tripeptide supplements can have higher bioavailability than equivalent free amino acid mixtures
  • Bioactive dipeptides include carnosine (muscle buffer and antioxidant), balenine/ophidine (found in whale and snake muscle), and various ACE-inhibitory dipeptides from food proteins (Val-Tyr, Ile-Pro) that may have mild blood-pressure-lowering effects
Related Terms Tripeptide Peptide Bond Carnosine Aspartame Oligopeptide

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