A disulfide-rich tetradecapeptide that acts locally in the gut lumen.
Also known as: Linzess · Constella
Part of the Metabolic & GLP-1 peptides cluster
Overview
Linaclotide is a synthetic 14-amino-acid peptide that activates guanylate cyclase-C on the intestinal lining, raising cyclic GMP and driving chloride, bicarbonate and water secretion into the lumen. It is an approved therapeutic for irritable bowel syndrome with constipation and chronic constipation. Content here is educational only.
Source & context
Biological / chemical source: Synthetic tetradecapeptide
Primary research or clinical context: Approved for irritable bowel syndrome with constipation and chronic constipation
Locally acting design
Three disulfide bonds lock linaclotide into a rigid, protease-resistant fold, and it is essentially not absorbed. Acting only within the gut lumen minimizes systemic exposure, a deliberate feature of its design as a minimally absorbed peptide agonist.
Secretory mechanism
Elevated cyclic GMP activates the CFTR chloride channel, pulling fluid into the intestine to soften stool and speed transit, while also modulating visceral pain signaling. Linaclotide is a leading example of the guanylate cyclase-C agonist class studied for functional bowel disorders.
Sequence
One-letter sequence commonly cited for Linaclotide (educational; isoforms and modifications may differ):
CCEYCCNPACTGCY
Residues plotted ~100° apart around an α-helix — clustering of one color reveals an amphipathic face.
FAQ about Linaclotide
What is Linaclotide?+
Linaclotide is a synthetic 14-amino-acid peptide that activates guanylate cyclase-C on the intestinal lining, raising cyclic GMP and driving chloride, bicarbonate and water secretion into the lumen. It is an approved therapeutic for irritable bowel syndrome with constipation and chronic constipation. Content here is educational only.
Is Linaclotide an approved medicine?+
Linaclotide: Approved for irritable bowel syndrome with constipation and chronic constipation. Always follow licensed medical guidance for approved products.
What is the typical length of Linaclotide?+
Linaclotide is commonly described as approximately 14 amino acids (Guanylate cyclase-C agonist).