Multi-functional Chimeric Peptides: The More the Merrier

Peptides are recognized as highly specific and efficacious molecules, thus have found increasing use in developing therapeutics in recent years. It has also been realized that pathophyisology of diseases are very complex and targeting multiple pathways often result in better outcome. The therapeutic potential of a single entity multifunctional peptides that act on two or more distinct receptors with the complementary mechanism of action to gain additive or synergistic benefit compared to monotherapy has been exploited in various disease areas. Herein, we reviewed the therapeutic potential of multifunctional peptides with examples from the field of metabolic, cardiovascular and neuropathic pain disease.