Fluorescent Bocillins: Synthesis and application in the detection of penicillin-binding proteins

Novel fluorescent analogs of penicillin V were synthesized and evaluated fo r efficacy in the detection of penicillin binding proteins (PBPs). These mo lecules include the full structure of penicillin V, with the potent Bodipy fluorophore attached to the para-position of the penicillin V phenyl group. The green fluorescent Bocillin FL and the near-infrared (IR) fluorescent B ocillin 650/665 probes were shown to bind to PBPs, both purified and from m embrane preparations, with high affinity and specificity. These reagents al low for facile detection of 2-4 ng of purified PBP with the aid of a fluore scent scanner.