Synthesis of small peptides for biomedical applications

Abstract

The objective of this study is the design of small peptides for biomedical applications, constructing biocompatible hydrogels able to respond to an external stimulus and form gel in a different pH. Mainly, we focus on the creation of a small peptide that forms a gel able to release the drug in response to a pH change similar to that found between the external and internal skin that could be useful for the treatment of skin wounds.

As we know because of the previous studies done in the Dr. Beatriu Escuder research group, these three dipeptides are good gelators.

We will try to synthesize these three dipeptides and then characterize them. The only commercial product from them is ZFFOH, so we decide to use it like model compound to determine the final methodology to assembly the hydrazine that allow us to form bonds with drugs that contain carboxyl group, like ketone and aldehyde group. Once characterized, we will proceed to the assembly of the hydrazide with the ketone and aldehyde groups. We will have to check once purified that they can form gels, and do drug release tests. This could make possible the controlled release of drugs, for example in skin wounds to help the healing of it, which would be a long term objective.