Solid-Phase Synthesis and Degradation of a Model Polypeptide by an Automated Approach

Abstract

The solid-phase synthesis and degradation of a model polypeptide, L-leucyl-L-leucyl-L-leucyl-L-leucyl-L-leucyl-L-alanine, was carried out using a computer-oriented automated approach.Two computer programs were used to generate control paper tapes for the total synthesis and degradation of the model peptide.Encouraging results were obtained in automating the degradation of polypeptides on the solid phase and in carrying out the degradation in a nonaqueous solvent system.The course of the synthesis and the degradation was monitored by amino acid analysis of acid hydrolyzates of the resin which were taken periodically.The automated solid-phase degradation of naturally occurring polypeptides and proteins should be possible through modifications of the described approach.