A New Semisynthesis of Human Insulin

Abstract
A new semisynthesis of human insulin starting from porcine insulin is described. N.alpha.A1, N.alpha.B1-di-Boc-desoctapeptide-(B23-30)-insulin bearing 6 free carboxyl groups is coupled with the suitably protected human insulin-(B23-30)-octapeptide. The preferred reaction site is the carboxyl group of ArgB22. Side products are eliminated by extensive chromatographic purification.