Synthesis of Fluorescent Cyclic Peptides via Gold(I)-Catalyzed Macrocyclization

J Am Chem Soc. 2023 Dec 13;145(49):26525-26531. doi: 10.1021/jacs.3c09261. Epub 2023 Nov 30.

Abstract

Rapid and efficient cyclization methods that form structurally novel peptidic macrocycles are of high importance for medicinal chemistry. Herein, we report the first gold(I)-catalyzed macrocyclization of peptide-EBXs (ethynylbenziodoxolones) via C2-Trp C-H activation. This reaction was carried out in the presence of protecting group free peptide sequences and is enabled by a simple commercial gold catalyst (AuCl·Me2S). The method displayed a rapid reaction rate (within 10 min), wide functional group tolerance (27 unprotected peptides were cyclized), and up to 86% isolated yield. The obtained highly conjugated cyclic peptide linker, formed through C-H alkynylation, can be directly applied to live-cell imaging as a fluorescent probe without further attachment of fluorophores.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Amino Acid Sequence
  • Catalysis
  • Cyclization
  • Fluorescent Dyes
  • Peptides*
  • Peptides, Cyclic*

Substances

  • Peptides, Cyclic
  • Peptides
  • Fluorescent Dyes