A Rapid Vapor-Phase Acid (Hydrochloric Acid and Trifluoroacetic Acid) Hydrolysis of Peptide and Protein

Abstract

A new method for the acid hydrolysis of protein is presented. Peptide bonds are cleaved by the action of an HCl/trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) vapor mixture. Contamination for the hydrolysis mixture is reduced to low levels (1-3 pmol). Recovery of hydrophobic amino acid is improved. Short reaction times are achieved and rapid removal of acids is facilitated. The reaction temperature is 158 degrees C for reaction times of 22.5 and 45 min with 7 M HCl and 10% TFA containing 0.1% phenol.