Concerted, rapid, quantitative, and site-specific dual labeling of proteins

J Am Chem Soc. 2014 Jun 4;136(22):7785-8. doi: 10.1021/ja4129789. Epub 2014 May 23.

Abstract

Rapid, one-pot, concerted, site-specific labeling of proteins at genetically encoded unnatural amino acids with distinct small molecules at physiological pH, temperature, and pressure is an important challenge. Current approaches require sequential labeling, low pH, and typically days to reach completion, limiting their utility. We report the efficient, genetically encoded incorporation of alkyne- and cyclopropene-containing amino acids at distinct sites in a protein using an optimized orthogonal translation system in E. coli. and quantitative, site-specific, one-pot, concerted protein labeling with fluorophores bearing azide and tetrazine groups, respectively. Protein double labeling in aqueous buffer at physiological pH, temperature, and pressure is quantitative in 30 min.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Amino Acids / chemistry
  • Amino Acids / genetics
  • Azides / chemistry
  • Escherichia coli / genetics
  • Escherichia coli / metabolism
  • Fluorescent Dyes
  • Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
  • Indicators and Reagents
  • Kinetics
  • Models, Molecular
  • Protein Conformation
  • Recombinant Proteins / chemistry*
  • Recombinant Proteins / genetics
  • Temperature

Substances

  • Amino Acids
  • Azides
  • Fluorescent Dyes
  • Indicators and Reagents
  • Recombinant Proteins