New alpha,gamma-cyclic peptides-nanotube molecular caps using alpha,alpha-dialkylated alpha-amino acids.

We report here the preparation and structural characteristics of a novel self-assembling peptide composed of alternating alpha,alpha-dialkylated alpha-amino and cis-4-aminocyclopent-2-enecarboxylic acids. The use of alpha,alpha-dialkylated amino acids represents a novel method to prevent the formation of extensive beta-sheet-like hydrogen-bonding networks that are characteristic of peptide nanotubes.