A uroguanylin analog engineered for pH-dependent activity in the gut.
Also known as: Trulance
Part of the Metabolic & GLP-1 peptides cluster
Overview
Plecanatide is a synthetic 16-amino-acid analog of the human peptide uroguanylin that activates intestinal guanylate cyclase-C. Increased cyclic GMP promotes chloride and bicarbonate secretion, softening stool, and it is an approved therapeutic for chronic idiopathic constipation and IBS with constipation. This page is educational and not medical advice.
Source & context
Biological / chemical source: Synthetic 16-amino-acid uroguanylin analog
Primary research or clinical context: Approved for chronic idiopathic constipation and irritable bowel syndrome with constipation
Uroguanylin mimicry
Plecanatide is modeled on uroguanylin, which is most active in the slightly acidic environment of the upper small intestine. This pH-sensitive design aims to concentrate activity where fluid regulation begins, distinguishing it mechanistically from linaclotide.
Two-disulfide fold
Two disulfide bonds between paired cysteines stabilize the peptide against digestion so it works locally with minimal absorption. Like linaclotide it belongs to the guanylate cyclase-C agonist class widely studied for constipation-predominant bowel disorders.
Sequence
One-letter sequence commonly cited for Plecanatide (educational; isoforms and modifications may differ):
NDECELCVNVACTGCL
Residues plotted ~100° apart around an α-helix — clustering of one color reveals an amphipathic face.
FAQ about Plecanatide
What is Plecanatide?+
Plecanatide is a synthetic 16-amino-acid analog of the human peptide uroguanylin that activates intestinal guanylate cyclase-C. Increased cyclic GMP promotes chloride and bicarbonate secretion, softening stool, and it is an approved therapeutic for chronic idiopathic constipation and IBS with constipation. This page is educational and not medical advice.
Is Plecanatide an approved medicine?+
Plecanatide: Approved for chronic idiopathic constipation and irritable bowel syndrome with constipation. Always follow licensed medical guidance for approved products.
What is the typical length of Plecanatide?+
Plecanatide is commonly described as approximately 16 amino acids (Guanylate cyclase-C agonist).