PepLess: A computational tool developed to optimize SPOT synthesis and analyze related immunoassay data

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Bioinformatics
• Computational Biology

Background:

• SPOT synthesis is a common peptide synthesis method but can be inefficient due to redundant peptide generation.
• Handling large, diverse sequence sets often leads to impractical and costly production of unnecessary peptides.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce PepLess, a computational tool designed to analyze multiple sequences simultaneously and minimize redundant peptide synthesis.
• To enhance the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of peptide synthesis by reducing membrane utilization.

Main Methods:

• PepLess analyzes multiple sequences to identify and eliminate redundancy before SPOT synthesis.
• The tool's effectiveness was validated using transcriptome sequences from *Loxosceles laeta* spiders and spike glycoprotein sequences from SARS-CoV-2.

Main Results:

• A case study using *Loxosceles laeta* sequences showed an approximate 21% reduction in required SPOT membrane spots.
• Analysis of SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein sequences resulted in a 75%-77% reduction in required spots.
• PepLess provides an efficient and automated method for clearer peptide identification and analysis.

Conclusions:

• PepLess offers a significant improvement in peptide synthesis efficiency and cost-effectiveness by reducing redundant peptide production.
• The tool streamlines peptide analysis, minimizing expenses and equipment usage.
• PepLess is a valuable computational solution for large-scale peptide synthesis projects.