N-(tert-Butoxycarbonyl)-L-phenylalanine, identified by CAS number 13734-34-4 and commonly known as Boc-L-Phenylalanine, is a fundamental compound in modern organic synthesis, particularly within the pharmaceutical industry. As a protected derivative of the amino acid L-phenylalanine, its unique chemical properties make it an invaluable intermediate for researchers and manufacturers. Understanding its characteristics is crucial for anyone looking to buy or utilize this substance effectively.

Boc-L-Phenylalanine presents as a white crystalline powder, a common characteristic of many high-purity organic intermediates. Its molecular formula is C14H19NO4, with a molecular weight of approximately 265.3 g/mol. The defining feature is the tert-butyloxycarbonyl (Boc) protecting group attached to the alpha-amino nitrogen of L-phenylalanine. This group serves a vital purpose: it temporarily blocks the reactivity of the amino group during synthesis, allowing for selective reactions at other sites on the molecule or in subsequent coupling steps.

Key Chemical Properties and Characteristics

The Boc group is known for its stability under neutral and basic conditions, making it compatible with a wide range of synthetic procedures. Crucially, it can be readily cleaved (removed) under acidic conditions, such as using trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), regenerating the free amino group for further reactions. This ease of manipulation is a cornerstone of its utility in complex synthesis pathways.

Other important properties include:

  • Melting Point: Typically in the range of 85-87 °C, indicating its solid, crystalline nature.
  • Solubility: Soluble in common organic solvents like methanol, dichloromethane, and dimethylformamide, facilitating its use in solution-phase reactions.
  • Stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions (e.g., at -20°C), ensuring shelf life and consistent performance.

Diverse Applications

The primary application for Boc-L-Phenylalanine is in peptide synthesis. It serves as a crucial chiral building block, allowing scientists to construct specific peptide sequences required for drug development, diagnostics, and biochemical research. Its purity and well-defined stereochemistry are paramount for the efficacy of the final peptide products.

Beyond peptide synthesis, Boc-L-Phenylalanine finds applications in the broader field of organic synthesis. It can be used as a chiral auxiliary or a starting material for synthesizing various complex organic molecules, including potential pharmaceutical candidates. For procurement professionals seeking this intermediate, partnering with reputable manufacturers and suppliers in China can offer access to high-quality material at competitive price points.

When you purchase Boc-L-Phenylalanine, ensure you receive a detailed Certificate of Analysis that confirms its purity and identity. Understanding these properties empowers researchers and developers to optimize their synthetic strategies and achieve successful outcomes.