Book excerpt: Presenting a wide array of information on chemical ligation – one of the more powerful tools for protein and peptide synthesis – this book helps readers understand key methodologies and applications that protein therapeutic synthesis, drug discovery, and molecular imaging. • Moves from fundamental to applied aspects, so that novice readers can follow the entire book and apply these reactions in the lab • Presents a wide array of information on chemical ligation reactions, otherwise scattered across the literature, into one source • Features comprehensive and multidisciplinary coverage that goes from basics to advanced topics • Helps researchers choose the right chemical ligation technique for their needs