Thermo Scientific™ LC-SMCC (succinimidyl 4-(N-maleimidomethyl)cyclohexane-1-carboxy-(6-amidocaproate))

Thermo Scientific™ LC-SMCC is a heterobifunctional amine-to-sulfhydryl crosslinker designed for bioconjugation and protein modification. It contains:

• NHS-ester (N-hydroxysuccinimide) that reacts with primary amines (-NH₂) in proteins, antibodies, or carrier molecules at pH 7-9, forming stable amide bonds.
• Maleimide group that reacts selectively with sulfhydryls (-SH) at pH 6.5-7.5, forming stable thioether bonds.
• Cyclohexane-stabilized spacer arm (16.2 Å) that enhances structural rigidity and stability compared to traditional SMCC.

LC-SMCC is frequently used for antibody-enzyme conjugation, hapten-carrier coupling, and biomolecular labeling. Unlike cleavable crosslinkers, LC-SMCC forms a permanent, non-reducible linkage between biomolecules.

Key Features & Benefits

✔ Heterobifunctional Crosslinking – Contains NHS-ester and maleimide groups for efficient and selective conjugation of amines to sulfhydryls.

✔ Cyclohexane-Stabilized Spacer Arm (16.2 Å) – Enhances structural stability and maintains the integrity of biomolecular interactions.

✔ Non-Cleavable & Membrane Permeable – Forms permanent thioether linkages, ideal for stable protein and antibody conjugates.

✔ High Purity (≥90%) – Verified by NMR and IR analysis, ensuring batch-to-batch consistency.

✔ Compatible with Enzyme & Antibody Labeling – Used to functionalize carrier proteins and enhance bioconjugation efficiency.

✔ Stable Maleimide Group – Maintains reactivity for up to 64 hours at 4°C in phosphate buffer (pH 7.0).

Chemical Properties & Identifiers

Applications

🔹 Antibody-Enzyme Conjugation – Used in enzyme-linked immunoassays (ELISA) and Western blot detection.

🔹 Hapten-Carrier Protein Coupling – Converts lysine residues in carrier proteins into sulfhydryl-reactive maleimide groups, facilitating hapten conjugation.

🔹 Protein Crosslinking – Forms stable linkages between proteins and biomolecules for structural and functional studies.

🔹 Nanoparticle & Surface Functionalization – Enables bioactive surface modifications in biosensor and diagnostic applications.

🔹 Two-Step Conjugation Strategy – Allows stepwise addition of biomolecules, reducing non-specific crosslinking.

✔ Reported Applications Include:

1️⃣ Labeling of Antibodies with Enzymes – Enhances sensitivity in immunoassays while preserving enzymatic activity.

2️⃣ Creation of Maleimide-Activated Carrier Proteins – Used for hapten-carrier conjugation in vaccine development.

3️⃣ Protein Bioconjugation for Drug Delivery – Applied in functionalized nanoparticle research.

Reaction Mechanism & Workflow

1️⃣ Step 1 – NHS-Ester Reaction:

• Dissolve LC-SMCC in DMSO or DMF (not water-soluble).
• Mix with a primary amine-containing biomolecule (e.g., antibodies, carrier proteins).
• Incubate at pH 7-9 to form an amide bond.
• Remove excess reagent via desalting or dialysis.

2️⃣ Step 2 – Maleimide Reaction:

• Add a sulfhydryl (-SH) containing molecule (e.g., enzyme, peptide, thiol-modified ligand).
• React at pH 6.5-7.5 to form a stable thioether bond.

Storage & Handling

📦 Storage Conditions:

• Store desiccated at 4°C to prevent hydrolysis.
• Avoid exposure to moisture and prolonged light exposure.
• Dissolve in anhydrous DMF or DMSO before use.

⚠ Handling Precautions:

• Use in a fume hood to prevent inhalation of dust.
• Wear gloves and eye protection while handling.
• Dispose of waste properly according to local regulations.

General References & Research Citations

1️⃣ Antibody-Enzyme Conjugation Using LC-SMCC – Anal. Biochem., 1987, 164(1), 36-42.

2️⃣ Maleimide-Activated Carrier Proteins for Hapten Conjugation – Bioconjugate Chem., 2001, 12(6), 1002-1007.

3️⃣ LC-SMCC in Protein Bioconjugation – J. Immunol. Methods, 2015, 416, 57-67.

Regulatory & Safety Information

⚠ For Research Use Only (RUO) – Not intended for diagnostic or therapeutic applications.

⚠ Hazard Warnings: Follow standard lab safety protocols when handling.

Ordering Information

📦 Shipping Conditions: Ambient

Thermo Scientific™ LC-SMCC (succinimidyl 4-(N-maleimidomethyl)cyclohexane-1-carboxy-(6-amidocaproate)) is a highly efficient, non-cleavable heterobifunctional crosslinker ideal for antibody-enzyme conjugation, hapten-carrier coupling, and protein bioconjugation. With high specificity for amines and sulfhydryls, it enables stable biomolecular conjugates for immunoassays, drug delivery systems, and biosensors.