Peptides are everywhere. Here’s what you need to know.

MIT Technology Review

by Cassandra Willyard

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Peptides have surged in popularity as a wellness trend, with influencers and tech enthusiasts touting their benefits for weight loss, mental sharpness, and longevity. These compounds, made up of amino acids, are being marketed as a “cure-all” in the alternative medicine space, despite many being unapproved by regulators. From injections to nasal sprays, peptides are now being sold widely online and in stores, with some even being used by mainstream consumers, including those in tech-driven wellness circles. The rise of peptides has caught the attention of health officials. Many popular peptides have never been tested in human trials and are often sold for research purposes only. This lack of oversight has led to concerns about their safety and effectiveness. Some products are knockoffs of FDA-approved medications or contain unverified ingredients, raising worries about mislabeling and illegal imports from China. While some peptides, like GLP-1 medications, are approved for conditions such as diabetes and obesity, others, like TB-500 and CJC-129

Verticals

aitechscience

Originally published on MIT Technology Review on 2/23/2026