Synthetic Peptides: A User's Guide (Advances in Molecular Biology)

The first synthetic peptides were produced a century ago. In the ensuing period, they have developed as valuable research tools that are readily available to all researchers. However, since most researchers do not make their own peptides, they are often unfamiliar with not only the synthetic chemistry but also with important and useful aspects of design, analysis, handling, and applications. This volume is the second edition of a volume that was first published 10 years ago. It is written by experts in the field who provide detailed descriptions as well as practical advice for producing and using synthetic peptides. The various chapters cover peptide design considerations, the synthetic chemistry, the evaluation of the synthetic product, and the modern applications of synthetic peptides. This includes the basic principles of peptide structure, analysis and chain assembly as well as the latest in selective disulfide bond formation, new strategies for the production of large peptides, and sequencing peptides by mass spectrometry. This book was designed with the intent of providing useful information both for the novices to the field as well as more seasoned practitioners. Its contents will help prevent problems commonly encountered and allow scientists to optimize their use of synthetic peptides.