Demonstration video shows automated peptide synthesis in action

A new demonstration video from Vapourtec showcases how its patented Variable Bed Flow Reactor (VBFR) is transforming solid phase peptide synthesis (SPPS)  - offering fully automated workflows, sharper process control, and higher purity crude peptides.

The video walks viewers through an SPPS cycle, starting with the swelling of Tentagel S resin in DMF and continuing through Fmoc deprotection using 20% piperidine in DMF. A visible decrease in resin volume, tracked in real time by the reactor’s volume graph and a UV signal at 365 nm, marks this deprotection step with a clear Fmoc peak.

Next, activated amino acids are added, triggering resin expansion. Viewers can observe this as a darker orange reagent slug flows through the reactor. Unlike traditional systems that rely on recirculation, the VBFR delivers reagents in a single pass - a key innovation that reduces side reactions and improves product purity.

With automated cycles of Fmoc deprotection and amino acid coupling, the VBFR allows precise control of resin bed conditions, eliminating problems like channelling or dilution. The system also responds dynamically to peptide sequence challenges: during synthesis of the GLP-1 sequence, aggregation during the F and E residue coupling steps is detected and controlled by elevating the reaction temperature, reducing the severity of aggregation compared to batch or ambient methods.

“The intuitive software interface gives researchers live feedback on UV absorbance and resin volume, so they can stay focused on results rather than constant monitoring,” explained Vapourtec Research Scientist Victoire Laude.

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