R. Bruce Merrifield and Solid-Phase Peptide Synthesis: A Historical Assessment

摘要

This paper answers a request from the editors of the Merrifield memorial issue to place Bruce Merrifield and solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) into historical context by considering the following questions. How did such a mild-mannered and relatively unknown biochemist in the mid twentieth century evolve to a global chemical icon by the end of the century. What were the challenges and how were they met. Was there a unique scientific life-style that exemplified Merrifields approach to research and what is his legacy. While I did spend several memorable years in the Merrifield laboratory I do not claim unique insights. This paper derives from a talk given at the Merrifield Memorial Symposium at the Rockefeller University on November 13, 2006. It compliments contributions by Art Felix, Maurice Manning, Arnold Marglin, Garland Marshall, Arthur Robinson, Noah Robinson and John Stewart in this issue and hopefully adds to our understanding and appreciation of Bruce Merrifield.