Novel growth hormone conjugates comprising a growth hormone compound (GH) and a growth hormone binding protein (GHBP) are disclosed. The invention also encompasses a novel derivatization method for producing stable, long-lasting conjugate (hGH-GHBP) by site specific conjugation. The novel GH-GHBP conjugates have an extended half-life in circulation that facilitates therapeutic use of the protein. The GH-GHBP conjugates exhibit pharmacological properties such as increased functional in vivo half-life, improved renal filtration, improved protease protection and albumin binding.
Methods for conjugating peptides are provided comprising i) reacting a peptide with a first compound comprising a functional group in the presence of a transglutaminase capable of incorporating said compound into the peptide to form a transaminated peptide, and ii) reacting said transaminated peptide with e.g. a functionalized polymer capable of reacting with the functional group incorporated in the peptide in the enzymatic reaction.
Methods for conjugating peptides are provided comprising i) reacting a peptide with a first compound comprising a functional group in the presence of a transglutaminase capable of incorporating said compound into the peptide to form a transaminated peptide, and ii) reacting said transaminated peptide with e.g. a functionalized polymer capable of reacting with the functional group incorporated in the peptide in the enzymatic reaction.