Understanding Mca-Glu-Asp-Ala-Ser-Thr-Pro-Cys-OH (CAS 291297-58-0): Structure, Properties & Research Applications

Understanding Mca-Glu-Asp-Ala-Ser-Thr-Pro-Cys-OH (CAS 291297-58-0)

Mca-Glu-Asp-Ala-Ser-Thr-Pro-Cys-OH (CAS 291297-58-0) is a synthetic peptide derivative commonly used in biochemical and analytical research. It consists of an eight-amino-acid sequence modified with an Mca (7-methoxycoumarin-4-yl)acetyl group at the N-terminus, making it especially useful in fluorescence-based assays.

This compound is classified as a Cysteine-containing peptide derivative with the molecular formula C₃₉H₅₁N₇O₁₈S and a molecular weight of 937.93 g/mol. Its structural complexity and functional groups allow it to serve as a versatile analytical tool in various research settings.


Structural Overview

The peptide sequence includes:

  • Glu (Glutamic acid)

  • Asp (Aspartic acid)

  • Ala (Alanine)

  • Ser (Serine)

  • Thr (Threonine)

  • Pro (Proline)

  • Cys (Cysteine)

The Mca group provides fluorescent properties, making the peptide suitable for detection and monitoring in enzymatic and biochemical assays. The presence of Cysteine contributes to potential disulfide interactions and structural flexibility.


Key Properties

1. Molecular Characteristics

  • Molecular Formula: C₃₉H₅₁N₇O₁₈S

  • Molecular Weight: 937.93 g/mol

  • Compound Type: Synthetic peptide derivative

  • Functional Groups: Peptide backbone, thiol group (from cysteine), fluorescent Mca moiety

2. Stability Considerations

Peptide derivatives like this often require:

  • Controlled storage temperatures

  • Protection from light due to the fluorescent Mca group

  • Appropriate pH conditions to avoid degradation

These factors ensure that the compound maintains its structural integrity during long-term use.


Scientific Applications

1. Fluorescence-Based Assays

The Mca group acts as a fluorogenic label, making this peptide suitable for monitoring enzymatic reactions, particularly protease activity. Researchers use this compound to measure enzyme cleavage patterns and reaction kinetics.

2. Analytical Method Development

Due to its well-defined sequence and molecular behavior, the compound is often included in:

  • Method development

  • Method validation

  • Calibration procedures in analytical laboratories

Its predictable response characteristics make it valuable for evaluating analytical system performance.

3. Biochemical Research

The peptide structure allows it to be used in:

  • Substrate studies

  • Structure–activity relationship (SAR) analysis

  • Enzyme recognition research

  • Kinetic modeling

The thiol group in Cysteine also enables specialized reactions involving oxidation, disulfide formation, or labeling.

4. Quality Control Studies

Standardized peptides are essential for analyzing system suitability, instrument stability, and method reproducibility. This compound offers the consistency required for comparative testing in QC environments.


Importance in Modern Research

Peptide-based substrates like Mca-Glu-Asp-Ala-Ser-Thr-Pro-Cys-OH have become indispensable in fields such as:

  • Pharmaceutical R&D

  • Proteomics

  • Enzymology

  • Fluorescent imaging technologies

Researchers choose such fluorescent peptides when they need reliable substrates for real-time reaction tracking, sensitivity-based assays, and quantitative analysis.


Mca-Glu-Asp-Ala-Ser-Thr-Pro-Cys-OH (CAS 291297-58-0) represents a highly functional synthetic peptide used extensively in analytical and biochemical research. With its unique fluorescent Mca group and multi-amino-acid sequence, it offers a versatile platform for protease assays, kinetic studies, and method development. Its combination of structural diversity and fluorescence makes it a valuable scientific tool across multiple research disciplines.

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