Conjugate Addition/Cyclization Sequence Enables Selective and Simultaneous Fluorescence Detection of Cysteine and Homocysteine

By Xiaofeng Yang, Yixing Guo, R. Strongin. Angewandte Chemie, 2011

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Biological thiols are essential for maintaining the appropriate redox status of proteins, cells, and organisms.[1] Cysteine (Cys) is an essential amino acid that is involved in protein synthesis, detoxification, and metabolism. Elevated levels of Cys have been associated with neurotoxicity,[2] and Cys deficiency is involved in slowed growth rate, hair depigmentation, edema, lethargy, liver damage, muscle and fat loss, skin lesions, and weakness.[3] Homocysteine (Hcy) has been implicated in various types of vascular and renal diseases. Elevated Hcy in the blood (>12 µm) is a well-known risk factor for cardiovascular[4a] and Alzheimer’s disease,[4b] neutral tube defects, complications during pregnancy, inflammatory bowel disease, and osteoporosis.[4c] Because Cys and Hcy levels are associated with different diseases despite their similar structures, their discrimination is necessary.

Subfields: Biochemistry, Rheumatology

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