Peptide chemistry is a rapidly advancing field, crucial for the development of therapeutics, diagnostics, and functional biomaterials. The incorporation of non-canonical amino acids, or unnatural amino acids (UAAs), into peptide sequences allows for the fine-tuning of properties such as stability, bioavailability, and receptor binding affinity. Among these valuable building blocks is 3-(Boc-amino)-3-(3-methoxyphenyl)propionic acid (CAS: 284493-53-4), a derivative that offers unique opportunities for peptide chemists. Sourcing high-quality materials from reliable manufacturers is paramount for success in this area.

Understanding 3-(Boc-amino)-3-(3-methoxyphenyl)propionic Acid in Peptide Synthesis

3-(Boc-amino)-3-(3-methoxyphenyl)propionic acid is structurally characterized by a Boc-protected amine group and a propionic acid backbone substituted with a 3-methoxyphenyl ring at the alpha-carbon. This substitution renders it a non-proteinogenic amino acid. The Boc protection is essential for solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) or solution-phase peptide synthesis, preventing unwanted side reactions during coupling steps.

When used in peptide synthesis, this compound can impart several desirable characteristics to the resulting peptide:

  • Enhanced Proteolytic Stability: The incorporation of non-canonical amino acids often increases a peptide's resistance to degradation by proteases, extending its half-life in biological systems.
  • Modified Conformation: The bulky, aromatic 3-methoxyphenyl group can influence the peptide's secondary and tertiary structure, potentially leading to improved binding affinity for target receptors or enzymes.
  • Increased Lipophilicity: The methoxyphenyl moiety can contribute to altered lipophilicity, which may affect a peptide's cell permeability and bioavailability.
  • Unique Functionalization Sites: The aromatic ring itself can serve as a platform for further chemical modifications, expanding the peptide's functional capabilities.

Procuring High-Quality Amino Acid Derivatives

For peptide chemists, obtaining 3-(Boc-amino)-3-(3-methoxyphenyl)propionic acid with guaranteed high purity and appropriate activation for coupling reactions is critical. Suppliers play a vital role in providing materials that are:

  • High Purity: Typically >98% or >99% purity, verified by analytical techniques like HPLC and NMR.
  • Chiral Integrity: If a specific enantiomer is required, suppliers must ensure high enantiomeric excess (ee).
  • Appropriately Protected: The Boc protection must be stable under synthesis conditions but readily removable when needed.
  • Available in Suitable Quantities: From milligram research scales to kilogram production batches, a reliable supplier can meet diverse needs.

When searching to buy this compound for your peptide synthesis projects, consider manufacturers who specialize in amino acid derivatives and can offer technical support and detailed product documentation. We are committed to providing high-quality building blocks like 3-(Boc-amino)-3-(3-methoxyphenyl)propionic acid to advance your peptide research and development.