This article is a summary of a special issue of the Journal of Neuroendocrinology based on presentations given at the 24th International Symposium on Regulatory Peptides. The symposium focused on advancements in peptide modulation in systems physiology and included sessions on omics integration into peptide physiology, G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) structure analysis, and peptide action across hormonal and neurotransmitter modes. The special issue includes original research reports and reviews that highlight the critical functions of regulatory peptides, the mechanisms of peptide actions, and the potential for regulatory peptide-based therapeutics. The article emphasizes the need for continued cross-disciplinary attention to advance regulatory peptide research and its translation to therapeutics. [Extracted from the article]