How are peptides synthesized?

Unlike the natural protein synthesis, peptides are synthesized from the C to N terminus. At LifeTein?, peptide synthesis is performed using PeptideSyn technology based on Fmoc or t-Boc chemistry to protect the alpha amino group. The deprotection agent (piperidine for Fmoc, TFA for Boc) frees the alpha amino group in preparation for coupling the next amino acid in the sequence. This reveals a new N-terminal amine to which the next amino acid may be activated by one of several reagents, forming a peptide bond. When the synthesis is complete, peptides are cleaved from the resin and de-protected. Peptides are then precipitated, washed, and lyophilized.