What is iodoacetamide?

Iodoacetamide is a chemical compound commonly used in biochemistry and proteomics as a blocking agent for cysteine residues in proteins. It is a derivative of acetamide where the hydrogen atom on the thiol group of cysteine is replaced with an iodine atom.

Iodoacetamide irreversibly modifies cysteine residues by forming a thioether bond, which prevents the cysteine from participating in further reactions, such as disulfide bond formation or enzyme activity. This blocking of cysteine residues is often used in protein sequencing and mass spectrometry analysis to prevent unwanted reactions or modifications of cysteine residues during protein manipulation.

Iodoacetamide is a toxic compound and should be handled with care in a well-ventilated area and appropriate personal protective equipment. It is commonly supplied as a powder and should be stored in a cool, dry place away from light and moisture to prevent degradation.