Synthesis of desmosine-containing cyclic peptide for the possible elucidation of elastin crosslinking structure

Elastin is a vital extracellular matrix protein, which is known for providing elasticity in numerous tissues. It is formed by the self-assembly and subsequent crosslinking of elastin precursor, tropoelastin. Two tetrafunctional, pyridinium-based amino acids desmosine and isodesmosine are exclusively found in elastin and play an important role as crosslinkers. Structural elucidation of elastin has eluded scientists to date, owing to the highly cross-linked structure and insoluble nature. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to synthesize a desmosine-containing cyclic peptide as a partial elastin mimic, in order to eventually facilitate the elucidation of the crosslinking pattern of elastin by mass spectrometric analysis.

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