A β-hairpin peptide with pH-controlled affinity for tumor cells

Chem Commun (Camb). 2022 Jan 6;58(4):505-508. doi: 10.1039/d1cc06218b.

Abstract

Considering that the pH in the tumor microenvironment is dysregulated, we designed a β-hairpin peptide (SSRFEWEFESSDPRGDPSSRFEWEFESS). The configuration of the peptide switched from a flexible linear to a rigid loop structure under weakly acidic conditions. The peptide internalized by tumor cells increased significantly under weakly acidic conditions.

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
  • Neoplasms / chemistry*
  • Neoplasms / pathology
  • Peptides / chemistry*
  • Protein Conformation
  • Tumor Microenvironment

Substances

  • Peptides