Identifying and Measuring Endogenous Peptides through Peptidomics.

Endogenous peptides, such as neuropeptides and peptide hormones, play important roles in intercellular communication, can provide information on physiology, and are potential sources of biomarkers. Mass spectrometry-based peptidomics methods are underutilized tools to identify and measure endogenous peptides in a relatively nontargeted manner. The purpose of this Viewpoint is to serve as a brief introduction to the field of peptidomics so that researchers interested in studying endogenous peptides are aware of this powerful approach and can consider its application.