New Technologies for Sustainable Peptide Syntheses

Peptides have gained increased interest as therapeutics over the past few decades, largely due to their advantageous properties including high specificity and affinity, as well as superior safety and tolerance. However, recent studies have revealed that at least 10 metric tons of solvent and materials are used to synthesize 1 kg of peptide drug substance produced by SPPS which is orders of magnitude higher than most small molecule syntheses. In addition, many of the reagents and solvents in use for peptide therapeutics are classified as chemicals of concern. Current and impending regulation could result in future disruption of industrial production of therapeutic peptides.

Recognizing the unmet environmental needs, the ACS Pharmaceutical Roundtable recently founded a team focused on improving sustainability practices in peptide development and has funded academic research in this area over the past 5 years. The groups initial contribution is focused on stimulating innovations in peptide syntheses (J. Org. Chem., 2019, 84 (8), pp 4615-4628). A refresh of the strategy is planned for publication in 2022 which is expected to identify additional areas for sustainable peptide development.

Organizer

Dr. Michael Kopach, Eli Lilly and Co.

Nominal Sponsor

ACS GCI Pharmaceutical Roundtable