The field of peptide synthesis has witnessed remarkable advancements, largely due to the development of sophisticated protecting groups and versatile building blocks. Among these, Fmoc-D-cyclopentylglycine (CAS 136555-16-3) has emerged as a significant player, enabling the creation of complex and functional peptides for a wide array of applications, including pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, and materials science. This article highlights the role of Fmoc-D-cyclopentylglycine in contemporary peptide synthesis and guides researchers and procurement specialists on sourcing this vital chemical.

Fmoc-D-cyclopentylglycine is an unnatural amino acid derivative characterized by the acid-labile Fmoc group protecting the alpha-amino function and a D-configuration cyclopentyl group attached to the alpha-carbon. This structure confers distinct properties upon peptides synthesized using this building block. The Fmoc group facilitates efficient coupling and deprotection cycles in solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS), a technique widely adopted for its speed and scalability. The D-configuration and the cyclic cyclopentyl side chain can introduce conformational constraints, increase metabolic stability against proteases, and potentially enhance binding affinity to specific biological targets compared to their L-amino acid counterparts or those with linear side chains. This makes Fmoc-D-cyclopentylglycine particularly useful for creating peptides with enhanced pharmacological profiles or unique structural motifs.

For laboratories engaged in peptide synthesis, whether for academic research or commercial drug development, the consistent availability of high-purity Fmoc-D-cyclopentylglycine is crucial. Sourcing this material from a reputable manufacturer or supplier ensures that the purity specifications, typically above 97% via HPLC, are met, which is critical for the success of multi-step synthesis. Procurement managers often look to specialized chemical companies, including those based in China known for their robust chemical manufacturing capabilities, to obtain this intermediate at competitive prices.

The utility of Fmoc-D-cyclopentylglycine extends to creating peptides for diverse applications. In pharmaceutical research, it can be incorporated into peptide drug candidates to improve their pharmacokinetic properties, such as half-life and oral bioavailability. For researchers in materials science, peptides functionalized with such residues might be used to develop novel biocompatible materials or sensors. The ability to purchase Fmoc-D-cyclopentylglycine in various quantities, from research-scale milligrams to bulk kilograms, from a reliable supplier is paramount for project continuity and scalability.

When seeking to acquire Fmoc-D-cyclopentylglycine, it is advisable to engage with suppliers who provide detailed technical specifications, safety data sheets (SDS), and certificates of analysis (COA). This diligence ensures that the procured material is suitable for intended applications and handled safely. As a key component in the modern synthetic chemist's toolkit, Fmoc-D-cyclopentylglycine continues to play a vital role in advancing peptide-based innovations.