Genetically encoded copper-free click chemistry.

Abstract

A bright click of life: Strained alkynes are genetically encoded into E. coli by use of an engineered pyrrolysine amber suppressor tRNA/synthetase pair from Methanosarcina mazei. As a result cyclooctynyl lysine derivatives were incorporated site-specifically in proteins allowing efficient labeling with fluorogenic azide-bearing dyes by means of a click reaction under physiological conditions in vitro and in vivo (see scheme).