Introduction
Peptides represent a growing area of oncology research, offering diverse mechanisms of action ranging from direct anti-tumour activity and immune system modulation to angiogenesis inhibition and apoptosis induction. Unlike small molecule chemotherapeutics, peptides can be engineered for high target specificity, reduced off-target toxicity, and compatibility with combination research approaches. This article provides an overview of peptides currently under investigation in cancer biology and immunooncology research.
For research and laboratory use only. Not intended for human or veterinary administration.
Key Research Compounds
Thymosin Alpha-1 (Tα1)
A 28-amino acid peptide secreted by the thymus that is one of the most extensively studied immunomodulatory peptides in oncology research. Thymosin Alpha-1 enhances T-cell maturation, augments NK cell cytotoxicity, upregulates MHC class I expression on tumour cells (increasing their visibility to cytotoxic T lymphocytes), and promotes dendritic cell maturation. Research has investigated its role as an adjunct to checkpoint inhibitor therapy and in models of hepatocellular carcinoma, lung cancer, and melanoma.
LL-37
The only known human cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide, LL-37 has a complex and context-dependent role in cancer biology. Research has demonstrated direct cytotoxic effects against certain cancer cell lines through membrane disruption, while also showing immunomodulatory properties that may enhance anti-tumour immune responses. LL-37 has been studied in models of colon cancer, lung cancer, and haematological malignancies, with its dual antimicrobial and immunomodulatory profile making it a compound of broad research interest.
Epithalon (Epitalon)
Beyond its well-studied longevity and telomerase-activating properties, Epithalon has been investigated in oncology research for its ability to regulate melatonin production and modulate the expression of oncogenes. Preclinical studies have explored its effects on tumour growth inhibition in mammary gland and colon cancer models, with proposed mechanisms involving normalisation of neuroendocrine regulation and antioxidant activity.
Adipotide (FTPP)
A pro-apoptotic peptide that selectively targets the vasculature supplying white adipose tissue and certain tumour vasculature. Adipotide’s targeting sequence (CKGGRAKDC) homes to prohibitin expressed on adipose and tumour blood vessel endothelium, delivering a pro-apoptotic payload (KLAKLAK)2 that induces mitochondrial disruption. Research has explored its potential as a tumour vasculature-targeting agent in preclinical cancer models.
KPV
A tripeptide derived from the C-terminal of α-MSH with potent anti-inflammatory properties mediated through melanocortin receptors and NF-κB suppression. In oncology research, KPV has been studied for its ability to reduce tumour-associated inflammation and modulate the tumour microenvironment in colorectal cancer models.
MOTS-c
A mitochondria-derived peptide that has been studied for its role in metabolic regulation and, more recently, in cancer biology. Research has explored MOTS-c’s ability to activate AMPK and regulate metabolic pathways that cancer cells exploit for proliferation, positioning it as a compound of interest in metabolic oncology research.
Peptide-Based Research Approaches in Oncology
- Immunomodulation: Enhancing T-cell, NK cell, and dendritic cell activity to improve anti-tumour immune surveillance
- Tumour vasculature targeting: Selectively disrupting blood supply to tumours via targeted pro-apoptotic peptides
- Tumour microenvironment modulation: Reducing immunosuppressive inflammation within the tumour microenvironment
- Combination approaches: Investigating peptides as adjuncts to checkpoint inhibitors, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy in preclinical models
Research Applications
- Immunooncology and checkpoint inhibitor combination models
- Tumour vasculature targeting and anti-angiogenesis research
- Hepatocellular carcinoma, lung cancer, and melanoma models
- Colorectal cancer and tumour microenvironment research
- NK cell and T-cell activation models
- Metabolic oncology and AMPK pathway research
Storage and Handling
Store lyophilised peptides at −20°C. For sensitive peptides such as Thymosin Alpha-1 and Epithalon, −80°C is preferred for long-term archival. Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water. Once reconstituted, store at 2–8°C and use within 28 days.
All products supplied by Vanta Labs are intended strictly for laboratory and research purposes.