Multifunctional Linker Compounds for Protein Cross-Linking Customization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for covalent labeling and conjugation of proteins lack novel linkers that can modify biochemical properties, provide functionalization sites, and enable customization for specific applications, such as cross-linking multiple regions of the same molecule or multiple molecules, with enhanced functionalities.

Innovation Solution

Development of multifunctional linker compounds represented by formulas (I-1) to (I-4), which include arylene, heteroarylene, alkylene, alkenylene, alkynylene, cycloalkylene, and heterocyclylene structures, optionally substituted with various functional groups, allowing for customizable molecular characteristics and cross-linking capabilities.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If commercial reagents and kits are used for conjugation and labeling, then the process is straightforward and reliable, but the biochemical properties cannot be customized and functionalization sites are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecustomization of biochemical propertiesVSAvoidlinker structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The linker molecule is divided into distinct functional segments: a core structure (X), multiple arms (R1-R6) that can independently interact with different molecules, and optional substituent groups (R3) that provide specific biochemical functionalities. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall molecular stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The linker is designed with multiple functional groups (R1-R6) that can perform different roles simultaneously: cross-linking, labeling, stabilizing, and providing attachment points for additional modifications. The core structure X can be selected from various chemical frameworks (aromatic, aliphatic, heterocyclic) to provide universal compatibility with different protein targets and labeling reagents.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If simple linkers are used for cross-linking, then the molecular structure is less complex, but the ability to provide functionalization sites for subsequent modifications is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctionalization sites for subsequent modificationsVSAvoidlinker molecular structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Different regions of the linker molecule are assigned specific properties: the core structure X provides structural stability and geometric arrangement, while the peripheral groups (R1-R6) provide reactive functionality. The substituent groups (R3) add localized biochemical functions such as solubility enhancement, targeting, or additional cross-linking capability at specific sites.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The linker is pre-equipped with multiple functional groups (R1-R6) and optional substituents (R3) that are designed to facilitate subsequent biochemical modifications. These pre-installed functional groups serve as ready-made attachment points for additional reagents, enzymes, or labeling molecules, eliminating the need for complex secondary modification steps.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If multifunctional linkers with multiple substituents are developed, then customization and stabilization capabilities are enhanced, but the difficulty of synthesis and characterization increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestabilization of conjugated moleculesVSAvoidsynthesis complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The synthesis approach divides the complex multifunctional linker into manageable segments that can be synthesized separately and then assembled. The core structure X is synthesized first, followed by sequential introduction of functional groups (R1-R6) and substituents (R3) through modular chemical reactions, reducing the overall synthetic complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Protecting groups and pre-functionalized intermediates are used during synthesis to simplify the assembly process. The core structure X is prepared with pre-installed reactive groups that can selectively react with specific functional groups (R1-R6) under controlled conditions, ensuring high yield and purity while minimizing synthetic steps.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS12570600B2Multifunctional linker compounds
Publication Date: 2026.03.10 20BLOC INC
  • US12570600B2 patent drawing
  • US12570600B2 patent drawing
  • US12570600B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided herein are compounds of formula (I),or salt, stereoisomer, or deuterated form thereof, wherein X, R1, and R2 are defined herein. Also provided herein are conjugated compositions comprising reacted units of a molecule (e.g., a protein) and a compound of formula (I), or salt, stereoisomer, or deuterated form thereof.