How Peptides Are Made: The Process of Peptide Synthesis

Do you ever wonder how synthetic peptides are made?
The process of making peptides, commonly known as peptide synthesis, is a sophisticated chemical process that allows scientists to create specific sequences of amino acids. In this podcast, we will explore the fascinating world of peptide synthesis, shedding light on the methods and techniques used to produce these amazing compounds.
Understanding Peptides:
Peptides are short chains of amino acids, the fundamental units that make up proteins. The unique sequence of amino acids in a peptide determines its specific function and biological activity. Synthesizing peptides involves creating these sequences in a controlled and precise manner to mimic naturally occurring peptides or design novel ones for specific purposes, such as therapeutic drugs, vaccines, or research tools.
What are the methods of Peptide Synthesis?
Solid-Phase Peptide Synthesis (SPPS):
The most widely used method for peptide synthesis is solid-phase peptide synthesis. This technique, developed by Nobel laureate Bruce Merrifield in the 1960s, involves attaching the C-terminal amino acid to an insoluble resin support. The amino acids are then sequentially added to the growing peptide chain while attached to the solid support. After synthesis, the peptide is cleaved from the resin and purified.
Liquid-Phase Peptide Synthesis:
Liquid-phase peptide synthesis is an older method that involves performing the entire synthesis in solution without using a solid support. While less commonly used today, it is still used for specific applications and for synthesizing shorter peptide sequences.
Chemical Synthesis:
Chemical synthesis involves coupling individual amino acids together in a stepwise manner. While this method is more labor-intensive and time-consuming, it is suitable for producing small peptides or those with complex structures that may be difficult to make in solid-phase synthesis.
Recombinant DNA Technology:
In the realm of biotechnology, peptides can also be produced using recombinant DNA technology. This method involves introducing a gene encoding the desired peptide into a host organism, such as bacteria or yeast. The host organism then produces the peptide through its own cellular machinery.
Some examples of peptides that have been synthesized using SPPS:
Insulin:
Probably the most widely recognized peptide is insulin. Insulin is responsible for regulating blood sugar levels, has been synthesized using solid-phase peptide synthesis to help treat diabetes.
Oxytocin:
Oxytocin is a neuropeptide that plays a crucial role in social bonding and sex drive.
Melanotan II:
Melanotan II, a synthetic peptide that stimulates melanin production in the skin, has been synthesized using solid-phase peptide synthesis. It is sometimes used for tanning purposes and sexual health.
GLP-1 Agonists like semaglutide:
Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity. It is a synthetic peptide designed to mimic the action of endogenous GLP-1, which plays a role in blood sugar regulation and appetite suppression.
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[@holliluc3497]

Thanks for the video, I am new to the channel and am very impressed with your channel, there is soo much here for me to learn ^_^

[@peptidepodcast]

You're very welcome!

[@Tanu213]

Is it expensive to make?

[@peptidepodcast]

Great question. In short, yes. Firstly, one of the primary expenses is the procurement of high-quality amino acids, the building blocks of peptides. These amino acids must meet stringent purity standards to ensure the successful synthesis of the desired peptide sequence. Additionally, the cost of reagents and solvents required for peptide synthesis can be significant. Reagents such as coupling agents, protecting groups, and activating agents are essential for linking amino acids together in the desired sequence, while solvents provide the medium for these reactions to occur. The purity and quality of these reagents directly impact the efficiency and success rate of peptide synthesis, thereby influencing overall costs. Furthermore, equipment costs represent a substantial portion of the expenses associated with peptide synthesis. Specialized synthesis instruments such as peptide synthesizers, HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography) systems for purification, and analytical instruments for characterization are necessary for efficient peptide production and quality control. Maintenance, calibration, and occasional upgrades of these instruments also contribute to the overall expenditure. Additionally, labor costs must be factored in, including the salaries of skilled personnel responsible for designing peptide sequences, performing synthesis reactions, purifying peptides, and conducting analytical tests to assess purity and identity. The complexity of peptide synthesis often requires highly trained chemists or biochemists, whose expertise commands a premium in the job market.

[@holliluc3497]

@@peptidepodcast Very interesting, if there an online course I can take to gain these skills? I love learning from home