thiolspecific
Thiol-specific describes reagents, probes, and reactions that selectively target sulfhydryl groups (-SH) of thiols, most notably the cysteine residues in proteins and low-molecular-weight thiols such as glutathione. The term is used in chemical biology, proteomics, and bioconjugation to covalently modify, label, or block thiols while minimizing reaction with other nucleophiles.
The chemistry relies on the thiolate form of a thiol being a nucleophile, often generated by mild
Common reagents and their outcomes include iodoacetamide and iodoacetic acid, which alkylate thiols to form stable
Applications span proteomic sample preparation, fluorescent labeling of proteins, affinity tagging and immobilization, and the selective
Considerations include the pH dependence of thiol reactivity, local protein environment, and thiol pKa, which influence