Peptides in Regenerative Medicine: Mechanisms, Evidence, and Translational Status

Regenerative medicine restores tissue structure and function by regulating the biological processes that are involved in cellular survival, proliferation, differentiation, as well as tissue remodeling. Peptide-based therapeutics have gained popularity as regenerative tools related to their ability to precisely modulate the defined signaling pathways. Peptides provide high target specificity, biological activity, and translational flexibility while also serving as endogenous signaling molecules that can influence the regenerative processes. FGF-18, TB4, GHK-Cu, MOTS-c, and tesamorelin demonstrate diverse regenerative mechanisms which include cartilage repair, wound healing, extracellular matrix remodeling, and tissue remodeling. Current evidence supports strong regenerative effects in preclinical studies, with clinical translation seen as well. Major barriers include limited bioavailability and delivery challenges. Continued advances in peptide engineering, delivery, and clinical evaluation will all be necessary to establish their long-term therapeutic role in regenerative medicine. This review evaluates peptide-based regenerative therapies by examining mechanisms of action, clinical evidence, and current translational status.