Perspectives in ultra-high load solid (gel) phase peptide synthesis

Abstract

Abstract A novel approach to ultra-high load solid (gel) phase peptide synthesis is reviewed and some recent developments discussed. The approach utilises a phenolic bead-form core network at an initial matrix loading of 5.0 mmol g−1, the theoretical maximum. Consecutive repeating units along the polymer backbone each form a point of attachment for a growing peptide chain, synthesis proceeding via the stepwise elaboration of a series of quasi-homogeneous peptide gel networks. The success of the method, which has proved effective in the laboratory preparation of gram and multi-gram quantities of peptides, is ensured by the judicious choice of reaction conditions, reagents and solvents, so as to secure efficient gelation for all intermediate peptide gel networks. These may be regarded as quasi-homogenous, both in covalent network architecture and in network distribution within the gel particles.