Insulin-like peptides are a class of peptides that share structural and functional similarities with insulin. These peptides play crucial roles in regulating glucose metabolism, growth, and development in various organisms, including humans. In addition to their role in maintaining blood sugar levels, insulin-like peptides also have broader effects on cell growth, proliferation, and survival. Research in this area focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms of insulin-like peptides, their signaling pathways, and potential therapeutic applications for diseases such as diabetes and cancer.