Racemization and bifunctional catalysts in peptide synthesis

Stereoselective C-terminal peptide elongation from Chan-Lam-Evans reaction generated isopropenyl esters

C-Terminal dipeptide isopropenyl esters were synthesised by a Cu(ii)-mediated Chan-Lam-Evans enol esterification of peptide carboxylic acids and isoprenyl boroxine. These shelf stable peptide esters could be coupled stereoselectively with a variety of amino acid and dipeptide nucleophiles in high yield and purity in the presence of pyrazole/DBU as the catalyst.

In search of new methods in peptide synthesis. A review of the last three decades

An attempt was made to discern ideas and trends in the development of peptide synthesis and to recognize general principles of the discipline. Introduction of efficient methods of activation and coupling during the early years of the reviewed period was followed by only moderate further improvements. Major advances were achieved by the discovery of novel methods of protection and by techniques of facilitation. Improvements in the methods of deblocking hold considerable promise and might bring significantly closer the goal of peptide synthesis: the direct preparation of homogeneous products.