Peptides for Cardiology

2 research peptides are currently studied for cardiology. This guide ranks them by evidence strength and covers their mechanisms, safety profiles, and current clinical status.

Evidence Rating: A

Category: Cardiovascular / Antiplatelet

Eptifibatide is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide (MW ~831.9 g/mol) that acts as a reversible antagonist of the platelet glycoprotein IIb/IIIa (GP IIb/IIIa) receptor, inhibiting platelet aggregation. Eptifibatide is modeled after the Lys-Gly-Asp (KGD) sequence found in barbourin, a disintegrin from the venom of the southeastern pygmy rattlesnake (Sistrurus miliarius barbouri).

Key claims: Reduces ischemic events in acute coronary syndrome; Improves outcomes during percutaneous coronary intervention.

Evidence Rating: A

Category: Cardiovascular / Antithrombotic

Bivalirudin is a synthetic 20-amino-acid peptide (MW ~2180.3 g/mol) that acts as a direct, reversible thrombin inhibitor. Bivalirudin is a synthetic analog of hirudin that binds both the catalytic active site and the anion-binding exosite of thrombin.

Key claims: Effective anticoagulation during PCI; Reduces bleeding compared to heparin-based regimens.