The field of peptide synthesis is a cornerstone of modern biochemistry and drug discovery, requiring specialized reagents for the precise assembly of amino acid chains. Fmoc-Ser(tBu)-OH, a protected derivative of the amino acid serine, is a fundamental component in this process. Its unique chemical characteristics and strategic application in solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) make it an invaluable resource for researchers worldwide. This article explores the essential properties and diverse applications of Fmoc-Ser(tBu)-OH.

Fmoc-Ser(tBu)-OH, also known by its IUPAC name N-alpha-(9-Fluorenylmethyloxycarbonyl)-O-t-butyl-L-serine, is primarily used in Fmoc-based SPPS. The Fmoc group protects the alpha-amino group, enabling controlled coupling reactions. The tert-butyl (tBu) ether protection on the serine side chain's hydroxyl group is critical. This side-chain protection is stable under the basic conditions used to remove the Fmoc group but can be selectively cleaved using acidic conditions, typically during the final peptide cleavage from the resin. This orthogonal protection strategy is key to synthesizing peptides with high fidelity. The compound's CAS number, 71989-33-8, ensures unambiguous identification, vital for procurement and literature referencing.

The quality of Fmoc-Ser(tBu)-OH is paramount for successful peptide synthesis. High purity, commonly specified as 98% or higher by HPLC, ensures that researchers obtain clean peptide products with minimal impurities. This reliability is crucial for applications in pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, and basic research. Consequently, obtaining this reagent from trusted Fmoc amino acid suppliers is essential. While the price of Fmoc-Ser(tBu)-OH can vary, it reflects the rigorous quality control and synthetic processes involved in its production. Researchers often rely on detailed Certificates of Analysis (CoA) to verify the purity and identity of the material they use.

Beyond its core role in SPPS, Fmoc-Ser(tBu)-OH is instrumental in various research applications within chemical biology and organic synthesis. It allows scientists to build peptides containing serine residues, which are often involved in biological signaling pathways through modifications like phosphorylation. This makes it a valuable tool for studying enzyme activity or creating peptide-based therapeutics. Its availability for research use empowers chemists to design complex peptides with tailored properties, contributing to advancements in drug discovery, biomaterials, and molecular biology. The consistent demand for high-quality Fmoc amino acid derivatives like Fmoc-Ser(tBu)-OH underscores its indispensable nature in scientific progress.