Design and Synthesis of Cell-penetrating Peptide Dendrimers

Activity: SupervisionCompleted SURF Project

Description

Peptide dendrimers have unusual multi-branched architectures with cell-penetrating properties. They have found applications as intracellular delivery agents for cell-impermeable drugs. The aim of this study is to investigate dendrimeric cores of different physical properties and its impact on penetration. Using Fmoc-based solid-phase peptide synthesis, we successfully synthesized five Lys-based dendrimers with varied physical properties. Through mass spectrometry-based artificial lipid permeability assays, we found that alanine core dendrimers exhibit lipid permeable capabilities. In conclusion, hydrophobic dendrimeric cores enhance lipid permeability which is crucial for direct cell penetration.
Period19 Jun 202331 Aug 2023