RGD peptide is also known as:
- Arginylglycylaspartic acid
- RGD tripeptide
- RGD motif
- RGD sequence
- Integrin-binding peptide
- Fibronectin-binding peptide
- Vitronectin-binding peptide
- Cilengitide (brand name for a cyclic RGD peptide drug)
RGD peptide is a tripeptide sequence of amino acids: arginine (R), glycine (G), and aspartic acid (D). It is found in many proteins in the extracellular matrix (ECM), such as fibronectin and vitronectin. RGD is also found in some cell surface proteins.
RGD peptide plays an important role in cell adhesion and migration. It binds to integrins, which are transmembrane proteins that connect the cell to the ECM. When RGD binds to an integrin, it activates a signaling cascade that leads to cell adhesion and migration.
RGD peptide is also involved in other cellular processes, such as angiogenesis, wound healing, and tumor progression.
RGD peptide is being used to develop a variety of therapeutic applications, including:
- Cancer treatment: RGD peptides can be used to target drugs to tumor cells or to block integrins, which are essential for tumor growth and metastasis.
- Heart disease treatment: RGD peptides can be used to promote the growth of new blood vessels in the heart or to protect the heart from damage.
- Alzheimer’s disease treatment: RGD peptides can be used to protect neurons from damage or to improve cognitive function.
- Multiple sclerosis treatment: RGD peptides can be used to repair the damage to the myelin sheath, which insulates the nerves.
RGD peptide is also being used to develop new biomaterials, drug delivery systems, and imaging agents.
RGD peptide is a promising class of compounds with a wide range of potential therapeutic applications. More research is needed to confirm its safety and efficacy for the treatment of a wider range of conditions. However, the results of preclinical and clinical studies to date are encouraging.
