The Synthesis of Linear and Cyclic Tripeptides of B-amino-acids

This thesis is concerned with the synthesis of β-amino-acid peptides. The linear tripeptide of β-alanine, and some previously unknown derivatives, suitable for use in cyclisation reactions, have been prepared. Several methods of ring closure for the synthesis of the cyclo-trimer are described, and the derivative fully characterised for the first time. An investigation of possibly rapid methods of peptide synthesis has underlined the need for careful control of reaction conditions if 'backing-up' procedures are to be successful.
Steric hindrance of the amino function of β-amino-isovaleric acid prevented peptide synthesis by usual procedures. Methods are described by which linear peptides of this amino-acid are available. The tripeptide was cyclised to the cyclo-trimer. The mass spectra of both cyclic derivatives, on which characterisation depends heavily, are discussed.