In the realm of chemical research, a thorough understanding of a compound's properties is the bedrock of successful experimentation and application. L-Glutamic acid gamma-tert-butyl ester, commonly known as H-Glu-OtBu, is a widely utilized derivative of glutamic acid, indispensable in areas such as peptide synthesis and organic chemistry. Its specific chemical characteristics dictate its behaviour and utility in various laboratory settings.

Chemically, H-Glu-OtBu is identified by its molecular formula C9H17NO4. Its molecular weight is approximately 203.24 g/mol. This composition highlights the presence of the glutamic acid backbone, featuring an alpha-amino group, an alpha-carboxyl group, and a side-chain carboxyl group esterified with a tert-butyl group (OtBu). The tert-butyl group functions as a protecting group for the side-chain carboxyl, a critical feature that prevents its participation in unwanted reactions during synthesis.

Physically, H-Glu-OtBu typically presents as a white or off-white powder or crystalline solid. This form makes it convenient for handling, weighing, and incorporating into reaction mixtures. Its solubility profile is also a key consideration for researchers. H-Glu-OtBu is generally soluble in common organic solvents such as dichloromethane (DCM), ethanol, ethyl acetate, and dimethylformamide (DMF). This broad solubility in organic media facilitates its use in a variety of reaction setups, particularly those employed in solid-phase and solution-phase synthesis.

The stability of the tert-butyl ester is another significant chemical property. It is relatively stable under neutral and mildly basic conditions, which is crucial for processes like Fmoc deprotection in SPPS. However, it is readily cleaved under acidic conditions, typically using trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) or hydrochloric acid (HCl). This acid lability allows for selective deprotection without affecting other acid-stable protecting groups or the peptide backbone itself, enabling orthogonal synthesis strategies.

For researchers involved in peptide synthesis, the precise structure of H-Glu-OtBu – specifically, the gamma-esterification – is vital. It leaves the alpha-carboxyl group free to participate in amide bond formation, allowing for the sequential elongation of a peptide chain. This controlled reactivity is fundamental to building accurate and functional peptide sequences.

Understanding these chemical properties is essential for optimizing reaction yields, ensuring product purity, and developing efficient synthetic routes. Companies like NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. provide meticulously characterized H-Glu-OtBu to meet the stringent demands of research laboratories. By offering detailed specifications and high-quality materials, they empower scientists to confidently utilize this versatile compound in their investigations, pushing the frontiers of chemistry and biotechnology.