Peptides MEX / Glossary
Deprotection: exposing a reactive group in synthesis
A synthesis sequence may require several deprotection steps with different purposes.
Updated · Sources and editorial standards
Removing a temporary block
Deprotection removes a group introduced to prevent reaction at a particular site. In peptide synthesis, exposing the terminal amino group allows assembly to continue. Side chains may retain other protecting groups during that step.
Sources: [1]
Selective does not mean complete removal
If a scheme specifies Fmoc deprotection, do not assume side-chain protectors were also removed. Identify the group removed and those retained. Resin cleavage and purification should be recognized as separate operations.
Sources: [1]
Questions about this reference
Does every deprotection produce the final peptide?
No. Many deprotection steps generate intermediates that undergo further reactions.
Sources and original reading
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