Small Molecule Bioconjugation

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Shelf-Stable Reagent for Bioconjugation and Protein Labeling Tech ID: UA20-120 Invention: This invention is a new class of amine-reactive, water-stable, small molecules for use as probes, reagents, or bioconjugates. These molecules are lysine-reactive and conjugate quickly without the need for coupling reagents or catalysts. The molecules are simple to synthesize and purify, with high yields. These materials selectively react with lysine for a range of pH levels. The probes of the present invention may be used to label proteins in a fluorescent manner, for purification, imaging, or general protein modifications. The long shelf life makes this invention suitable for use as a reagent for diagnostic kits. Background: Protein bioconjugation techniques are critical to multiple areas of investigation, including but not limited to probing solvent exposed protein structures for biophysical characterization, or for attaching antibodies, imaging agents or cytotoxic drugs. Where common lysine-reactive probes such as N-hydroxysuccinimide (NHS) esters are not hydrolytically stable, and isothiocyanates face synthetic challenges including functional group incompatibility, this invention provides compound stability, synthetic ease, and thermodynamic selectivity.