Efficient sequential segment coupling using N-alkylcysteine-assisted thioesterification for glycopeptide dendrimer synthesis

A highly pure MUC1-derived glycopeptide dendrimer of 22 kDa was prepared by a sequential segment coupling, achieved by an N-alkylcysteine (NAC)-assisted thioesterification. The glycopeptide having C-terminal NAC was prepared by the Fmoc method and converted to the thioester by 3-mercaptopropionic acid treatment. The thioester was condensed with a lysine trimer carrying NAC to afford tetramer, which was then converted to the thioester. Two tetramers were condensed with ethylenediamine to give the octameric glycopeptide dendrimer.