Azide Amine-PEG-acid contains three functional groups: an azide group (-N3) at one end, an amine group (-NH2) at the other end, and a carboxylic acid group (-COOH) in the middle of the PEG chain.
The azide group ability to undergo a copper-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) reaction with terminal alkynes, a reaction known as “click chemistry.” This reaction allows for the efficient conjugation of Azide Amine-PEG-acid with other molecules, such as drugs or imaging agents, to create novel therapeutics or diagnostics.
The amine group on the other end of the molecule can react with carboxylic acids, anhydrides, or activated esters to form amide bonds. This property makes it possible to covalently attach Azide Amine-PEG-acid to other molecules, such as proteins or peptides, to improve their solubility, stability, and pharmacokinetic properties.