N-butyryl-L-Homocysteine thiolactone (CAS 202284-85-3)

N-butyryl-L-Homocysteine thiolactone is a chemical compound extensively utilized in scientific research, particularly in the field of epigenetics and post-translational modifications of proteins. It plays a vital role as a precursor for the synthesis of cyclic N-homocysteinylated proteins, which are involved in diverse cellular processes. The compound is known to undergo enzymatic cyclization, leading to the formation of N-homocysteinylated proteins through a thiolactone intermediate. This modification can impact protein structure, stability, and function, thereby influencing cellular signaling pathways and gene expression. Researchers employ N-butyryl-L-Homocysteine thiolactone as a valuable tool to explore the biological consequences of protein N-homocysteinylation and its potential role in various cellular processes. Additionally, this chemical facilitates the investigation of the enzymes involved in thiolactone formation and the identification of proteins susceptible to N-homocysteinylation. By advancing our understanding of these mechanisms, N-butyryl-L-Homocysteine thiolactone contributes to the elucidation of the complex interplay between protein modifications and cellular functions, paving the way for further research and potential applications in fields such as epigenetics, proteomics, and cellular signaling.