Peptides are short chains of amino acids, typically comprising 2 to 50 amino acids linked by peptide bonds. They are smaller than proteins and can be thought of as the building blocks that make up proteins. Peptides play a crucial role in biological processes, acting as hormones, neurotransmitters, growth factors, and antimicrobial agents, and they have significant therapeutic potential due to their diverse biological functions. Their smaller size often allows for easier synthesis and absorption in the body, making them important in research and medicine.