Abstract
Gaining insight into biological processes relies on sensitive analytical techniques. These often require labeling of biomolecules that help visualize them. Selective covalent labeling without preliminary modification of the biomolecules is an advantageous method. For example, this can be achieved by using probes that are capable of in situ quinone methide (QM) formation. The QM can be masked to give a stable precursor, and the highly reactive form is only generated upon activation by a specific trigger. The in situ formed QM then binds covalently to the nucleophilic side chains of either the target protein or a protein in close proximity. Using fluorogenic probes further improves this method by reducing non-specific background signals, thus improving signal-to-noise ratios. In this review we summarize the development of quinone methide-based probes from mechanism-based inactivation to red-emitting, fluorogenic activity probes, focusing on enzyme-triggered activation.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.