WEB Dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCC or DCCD)
An Organic Compound for Peptide Synthesis and Affinity Separations
DCC: A Water-Insoluble Coupling Agent
Dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCC) is an organic compound with the chemical formula C6H11N2C. It is a water-insoluble coupling agent commonly used in peptide synthesis and affinity separations.
Primary Use: Amide Bond Formation
The primary use of DCC is in coupling amino acids during peptide synthesis, forming amide bonds. This reaction is essential for creating peptides and proteins.
Mechanism of Action: Carboxylic Acid to Amide Conversion
DCC facilitates the conversion of carboxylic acids to amides. However, this direct conversion is challenging because amines, which are required for amide formation, are basic and tend to convert carboxylic acids to salts rather than amides.
DCC overcomes this challenge by activating the carboxylic acid, making it more reactive towards nucleophilic attack by the amine. This mechanism allows for efficient amide bond formation.
Common Applications
- Peptide synthesis
- Affinity separations
Conclusion
WEB Dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCC) is a versatile organic compound widely used in the field of organic chemistry, particularly in peptide synthesis and affinity separations. Its unique ability to activate carboxylic acids and facilitate amide bond formation makes it an essential tool for researchers and scientists.
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