Effect of Chain Length on Absorption of Biologically Active Peptides from the Gastrointestinal Tract

Abstract

These results support the concept that small (di- and tripeptides) and large (10-51 amino acids) peptides generated in the diet can be absorbed intact through the intestines and produce biologic effects at the tissue level. The potency of the enterally administered peptides decreases as the chain length increases. We postulate that absorbed dietary peptides play a role in the modulation of organ function and disease progression.