Aldehyde-terminated polyPEGs can be used for bioconjugation through the reaction of aldehyde groups. The Schiff base reaction reacts with the N-terminus of a peptide/protein or amino molecule, resulting in an imine bond.
Aldehyde is an organic compound composed of a carbonyl group (C=O) bonded to at least one hydrogen atom. It is a very important class of organic compounds that are used in a wide range of applications including pharmaceuticals, food additives, flavorings, and fragrances. Aldehydes can be found naturally in plants, fruits, and vegetables, and are also produced synthetically.