Regenerative · Angiopoietin-1-derived integrin-interacting heptapeptide
QHREDGS
Also known as Angiopoietin-1-derived QHREDGS peptide
An angiopoietin-1-derived heptapeptide studied for integrin-dependent cell–matrix interactions, particularly in functionalised biomaterials.
- Length
- 7 amino acids
- Half-life
- Not well characterised
- Mechanism
- QHREDGS is an angiopoietin-1-derived motif associated with integrin-dependent cell–matrix signalling, with β1-containing integrins implicated in experimental systems. It should not be assumed to reproduce the Tie2 receptor activation mechanism of intact angiopoietin-1.
- Studied in
- Cardiomyocyte, endothelial and epithelial culture models, together with peptide-functionalised hydrogels, examine adhesion, cellular stress responses and cell–matrix interactions.
About QHREDGS
QHREDGS denotes the sequence glutaminyl-histidyl-arginyl-glutamyl-aspartyl-glycyl-serine, a seven-residue motif derived from angiopoietin-1. Interest in the peptide arose from work separating integrin-associated functions of angiopoietin-1 from the activities of the intact multidomain protein. Although angiopoietin-1 is a recognised Tie2 ligand, the isolated QHREDGS motif is principally investigated as an integrin-interacting sequence. Its short length makes it suitable for chemical incorporation into hydrogels and other defined cell-culture substrates.
Experimental studies have used QHREDGS-containing materials with cardiomyocytes, endothelial cells and epithelial cells to examine adhesion and responses to cellular stress. β1-integrin dependence has been implicated, but the participating receptor complexes can vary with cell type and assay format. Matrix stiffness, ligand accessibility and background adhesion motifs can all modify the measured response. Consequently, studies should compare matched materials and distinguish effects of the peptide from changes in scaffold chemistry or mechanical properties.
Laboratory notes
- Specify whether QHREDGS is soluble or immobilised, and document any linker or additional coupling residue.
- Match scaffold stiffness and bulk composition between peptide-bearing and control materials.
- Use β1-integrin blocking or genetic controls where appropriate, alongside measurements of adhesion and cell number.
Storage and reconstitution basics: storage guide.
Questions about QHREDGS
Does QHREDGS activate Tie2 like intact angiopoietin-1?
That should not be assumed. The peptide is mainly studied for integrin-associated effects, and Tie2 engagement requires independent experimental evidence.
Does QHREDGS contain an RGD motif?
No. Its sequence contains REDG, not the contiguous RGD tripeptide. Integrin-related activity cannot be attributed to a canonical RGD motif.
Why must coupling modifications be reported?
A linker, added residue or attachment through a native functional group can change peptide accessibility and orientation. These modifications can affect interpretation of cell–material experiments.
Is QHREDGS for human use?
No. It is supplied strictly for in-vitro laboratory research and is not for human or animal consumption.
Related research peptides
All products are sold for laboratory research use only. Not for human consumption, not a medicine, not for diagnosing, treating or preventing any condition.