Synthesis of Functional Materials containing the RGD Peptide Sequence

The RGD (arginine-glycine-glutamic acid) sequence is a major ligand in cell proliferation. Progress towards the development of novel peptides containing the RGD sequence is presented in three parts. Part 1 describes an approach to peptides featuring a linear self-assembling component and a molecular recognition cyclic RGD sequence (shown below) that allows the formation of well-defined gel matrices with cell adhesion properties for promoting human tissue regeneration. The solid phase synthesis of the peptide is described along with a microscopic evaluation of its aggregated state and a preliminary biological assessment. Part 2 describes the solid phase synthesis of dual cyclic, bicyclic and trimeric RGD-containing peptide sequences (shown below) intended as new scaffolds for tissue engineering. Part 3 describes an approach to cancer treatment entailing the use of a cyclic RGD peptide as a vehicle for selective delivery of vascular damaging agents to solid tumours. A conjugate consisting of Kessler’s c(RGDfK) peptide as a courier and the potent anti-mitotic agent colchinol as a warhead was synthesised and fully characterised.