O-(2-Nitrobenzyl)-L-tyrosine hydrochloride (CAS# 207727-86-4), also known as NBY, ONBY, NB-caged Tyrosine hydrochloride, or O-[(2-Nitrophenyl)methyl]-L-tyrosine hydrochloride, is a photocaged L-tyrosine derivative with the molecular formula C₁₆H₁₇ClN₂O₅ and a molecular weight of 352.77 g/mol. Its molecular structure features an L-tyrosine core in which the phenolic hydroxyl group is protected by a photolabile ortho-nitrobenzyl (oNB) ether linkage, presented as the hydrochloride salt. As a pale yellow to off-white crystalline powder with a melting point of 205°C (decomposition) and recommended storage at 2–8°C, NBY is a cornerstone tool for researchers in chemical biology, neuroscience, and drug development. The compound’s functionality hinges on the photolabile nature of the ortho-nitrobenzyl protecting group: upon absorption of UV light, typically in the range of 300–365 nm, the oNB moiety undergoes rapid photolysis to release native L-tyrosine, enabling spatiotemporal control of tyrosine-dependent biological processes. This “on-switch” capability allows for the initiation of signaling pathways, activation of enzymes, or release of neurotransmitters at desired locations and times within living systems. Based on its unique photochemical properties and biological significance, this article systematically analyzes the key properties, core application areas, global market structure, regional dynamics, regulatory landscape, and future outlook of this strategically important photocaged amino acid.
Core Application Fields and Demand
Market demand for O-(2-Nitrobenzyl)-L-tyrosine hydrochloride (CAS# 207727-86-4) is concentrated in three primary sectors: chemical biology and protein research (approximately 45–50% of global consumption), peptide synthesis and caged peptide development (approximately 30–35%), and neuroscience and drug discovery (approximately 15–20%). Its unique ability to provide spatiotemporal control over tyrosine-dependent biological processes serves as the core driver of sustained demand growth across all sectors.
In chemical biology and protein research, NBY has been genetically encoded into multiple proteins in E. coli, mammalian cells, and cell-free systems via engineered tyrosyl-tRNA synthetase (oNBTyrRS)/tRNA_CUA orthogonal pairs, enabling light-triggered “on-switch” control of protein function. This genetic encoding capability allows researchers to introduce a photocaged tyrosine residue at specific positions within a protein of interest. Prior to photolysis, the oNB group sterically and electronically masks the tyrosine’s phenolic side chain, effectively rendering the protein inactive or “caged”. Upon irradiation with UV light (typically 365 nm), the oNB photocage is cleaved with a photolytic intermediate half-life of approximately 7 μs, cleanly regenerating native L-tyrosine and restoring protein function with high temporal precision. This approach has been employed to study ion channels—including incorporation into the M2 transmembrane segment of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor expressed in Xenopus oocytes—as well as kinases, phosphatases, and other tyrosine-dependent enzymes. The nonsense codon suppression technique is a key methodology for incorporating caged tyrosine into proteins. NBY is readily incorporated into E. coli proteins via inclusion in growth media.
In peptide synthesis and caged peptide development, O-(2-Nitrobenzyl)-L-tyrosine hydrochloride serves as a specialized building block for the synthesis of caged peptides—peptides whose biological activity is masked by the photocleavable oNB protecting group. In solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS), the compound can be incorporated as a standard amino acid building block. Following peptide assembly and purification, the oNB group can be selectively removed under light exposure, enabling the stepwise construction of complex peptide chains with precise structural and functional characteristics. This methodology supports research into protein structure-function relationships and the development of bioactive peptides. A notable application includes the synthesis of caged neuropeptide Y, where photolysis releases the active peptide with spatiotemporal control.
In neuroscience and drug discovery, the ability to release tyrosine or tyrosine-containing peptides with light enables the study of neurotransmitter signaling, receptor activation, and synaptic plasticity with millisecond precision. The compound’s photoresponsive properties are especially valuable in the development of photoresponsive materials and in the study of biological systems where spatial and temporal control of molecule release is crucial.
In enzyme inhibition research, O-(2-nitrobenzyl)-L-tyrosine hydrochloride has been identified as a stable covalent inhibitor of human tyrosinase, an enzyme that catalyzes the first two steps in melanin synthesis. This drug has been shown to inhibit the growth of cancer cells in culture and has been used to treat bone cancer in animal models.
Major Market Participants
The global supply system for O-(2-Nitrobenzyl)-L-tyrosine hydrochloride (CAS# 207727-86-4) features a pattern of “specialized chemical biology suppliers, research-grade distributors, and Chinese manufacturers serving distinct market segments.” As a specialized photocaged amino acid rather than a commodity chemical, the market is characterized by a limited number of suppliers catering to the chemical biology, pharmaceutical R&D, and academic research communities.
In the global research and high-purity segment, key international suppliers include Sigma-Aldrich (Merck), which offers NBY at ≥95% purity with a powder form and a melting point of 205°C (decomp.), and Santa Cruz Biotechnology, which supplies the compound for caged peptide synthesis research. Other notable suppliers include AKSci, which offers the compound at 95% purity, and various research chemical distributors serving the chemical biology community.
In the industrial and research-grade segment, Chinese manufacturers have emerged as important players in the global supply chain. XinChem is a notable supplier offering O-(2-Nitrobenzyl)-L-tyrosine hydrochloride (CAS 207727-86-4) with purity ≥96%. Other Chinese suppliers include companies offering the compound with purity ≥96% and ≥98% in various packaging sizes. Chinese suppliers offer the compound at various purity grades (typically ≥95% to ≥98%) and packaging options (from 100 mg to bulk quantities), serving both domestic and export markets with competitive pricing.
European and North American suppliers focus on high-purity and research-grade compounds for academic and pharmaceutical R&D applications, while Chinese producers serve the broader research and industrial markets with competitive pricing and flexible supply options.
Regional Market Dynamics
The global O-(2-Nitrobenzyl)-L-tyrosine hydrochloride market exhibits distinct regional characteristics, with production and distribution spanning Asia-Pacific, North America, and Europe, aligned with the chemical biology, pharmaceutical, and academic research industries in these regions. As a specialized research chemical rather than a bulk commodity, the market is characterized by moderate growth driven by increasing investment in chemical biology and drug discovery.
The Asia-Pacific region has emerged as a significant production hub for photocaged amino acids, with China hosting manufacturers such as XinChem. The region’s competitive advantages include established chemical infrastructure, cost-effective manufacturing, and proximity to rapidly growing pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. Chinese suppliers offer the compound at various purity grades and packaging options, serving both domestic and export markets. The growing chemical biology and pharmaceutical R&D sectors in China, Japan, South Korea, and other Asia-Pacific countries continue to drive regional consumption growth.
North America remains a key market for high-purity and research-grade NBY, driven by demand from the chemical biology community, pharmaceutical companies, and academic research institutions. The United States hosts numerous research organizations, biotechnology companies, and universities that require high-quality photocaged amino acids for protein engineering, neuroscience, and drug discovery research. The region’s well-established regulatory framework and emphasis on product quality support demand for high-grade research chemicals.
Europe is characterized by stringent regulatory requirements and a strong focus on quality in pharmaceutical and chemical research. European research institutions and pharmaceutical companies demand high-purity photocaged compounds with comprehensive documentation. The region’s strong academic research base in chemical biology and neuroscience supports steady demand for photocaged amino acid derivatives.
Regulatory and Safety Considerations
As a research chemical and photocaged amino acid derivative, O-(2-Nitrobenzyl)-L-tyrosine hydrochloride (CAS# 207727-86-4) is subject to regulatory oversight in major global economies. Compliance with relevant regulations is essential for market access and trade.
In the United States, NBY is intended for research use only and is not intended for diagnostic or therapeutic use. For research applications, the compound is subject to standard laboratory safety regulations. The compound is not a controlled substance.
In the European Union, the compound must comply with REACH registration requirements for import and use. Manufacturers and suppliers must provide comprehensive Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and maintain appropriate documentation.
GHS classification and handling: O-(2-Nitrobenzyl)-L-tyrosine hydrochloride is classified as a self-reactive hazardous material (Self-react. C). The signal word is “Danger”. Standard laboratory safety practices should be followed during handling, including the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, protective clothing, and eye/face protection). The compound should be stored at 2–8°C in tightly closed containers, protected from moisture and light. The WGK (water hazard class) classification is 3, indicating high hazard to water.
For international transport, O-(2-Nitrobenzyl)-L-tyrosine hydrochloride is classified under storage class 5.2 (Organic peroxides and self-reacting hazardous materials). Proper packaging, labeling, and documentation are required for international shipping in compliance with the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG Code) and other transport regulations.
Future Outlook
The market outlook for O-(2-Nitrobenzyl)-L-tyrosine hydrochloride is positive, supported by several key growth drivers across its major application segments. While the compound remains a relatively specialized research chemical within the broader photocaged amino acid market, its unique properties and essential role in chemical biology and neuroscience position it for steady growth in the coming years.
Key growth drivers include:
- Expansion of chemical biology research: The growing field of chemical biology, which uses chemical tools to study and manipulate biological systems, drives demand for photocaged amino acids like NBY for spatiotemporal protein control.
- Growth in optogenetics and photopharmacology: The increasing use of light-based techniques to control biological processes in living systems creates new opportunities for photocaged compounds.
- Expansion of neuroscience research: The ability to study neurotransmitter release and receptor activation with light enables new insights into brain function and neurological disorders.
- Increasing investment in drug discovery: The development of new therapeutic approaches targeting tyrosine-dependent signaling pathways supports demand for photocaged tools for target validation and mechanistic studies.
- Growth in protein engineering: The ability to genetically encode photocaged amino acids into proteins enables the development of new research tools and potential therapeutic approaches.
Challenges and considerations:
- Regulatory compliance: Increasingly stringent chemical regulations may require ongoing investment in quality systems and documentation.
- Limited scale: As a highly specialized compound, the market for NBY is smaller than that of commodity chemicals, which may limit investment in large-scale production capacity.
- Competition from alternative photocaging groups: The market faces competition from other photocleavable protecting groups and photocaged amino acid derivatives.
- Technical complexity: The synthesis and handling of photocaged amino acids require specialized expertise and equipment.
To succeed in this evolving market landscape, suppliers must focus on product quality (particularly purity, batch-to-batch consistency, and photochemical performance), supply chain reliability, regulatory compliance, and responsive customer service. Companies that can offer high-purity products, flexible packaging options, and technical support for chemical biology and neuroscience research applications will be well-positioned to capture growing demand.
Shanghai XinChem Co., Ltd. (XinChem)
As a world-leading supplier of organic chemicals and research compounds, Shanghai XinChem Co., Ltd. (XinChem) is dedicated to meeting the innovative needs of the chemical biology, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and fine chemical industries. Leveraging extensive experience and advanced manufacturing capabilities, XinChem provides high-quality O-(2-Nitrobenzyl)-L-tyrosine Hydrochloride (CAS# 207727-86-4) to customers worldwide. As a trusted manufacturer and supplier based in China, XinChem combines competitive pricing, reliable supply, and exceptional service to establish itself as a preferred partner for research institutions and businesses seeking this essential photocaged amino acid building block.
1. Technical Advantages
Advanced Synthesis and Purification Processes
XinChem utilizes state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities and rigorous quality control measures to ensure the purity, consistency, and safety of its NBY products. The production process incorporates advanced synthetic technologies—including selective O-alkylation of L-tyrosine with 2-nitrobenzyl halides, followed by hydrochloride salt formation and purification—enabling the delivery of products with purity ≥96% to ≥98% (HPLC) to meet diverse research requirements. Strict process control ensures consistent enantiomeric purity (L-configuration), minimal impurities, and batch-to-batch reproducibility, providing customers with reliable photochemical performance in protein encoding, peptide synthesis, and neuroscience research.
Full-Chain Quality Control
The production process strictly adheres to international quality standards, with comprehensive quality control covering raw material sourcing, in-process monitoring, and finished product testing. Each batch is accompanied by a detailed Certificate of Analysis (COA) documenting physical and chemical properties, purity data (HPLC), and impurity profiles. This commitment to quality ensures that XinChem’s O-(2-Nitrobenzyl)-L-tyrosine hydrochloride meets the stringent requirements of chemical biology, pharmaceutical R&D, and academic research applications.
2. Product Advantages
High Purity and Consistent Quality
XinChem offers O-(2-Nitrobenzyl)-L-tyrosine hydrochloride with purity ≥96% (HPLC), ensuring optimal performance in protein encoding, caged peptide synthesis, and neuroscience research applications. The product’s high purity minimizes the risk of unwanted side reactions and impurities, making it suitable for demanding applications in chemical biology and drug discovery.
Comprehensive Specifications
Key specifications include:
- CAS Number: 207727-86-4
- Molecular Formula: C₁₆H₁₇ClN₂O₅
- Molecular Weight: 352.77 g/mol
- Synonyms: NBY, ONBY, NB-caged Tyrosine hydrochloride, O-[(2-Nitrophenyl)methyl]-L-tyrosine hydrochloride
- Appearance: Pale yellow to off-white crystalline powder
- Purity: ≥96% (HPLC)
- Melting Point: 205°C (decomp.)
- Storage: 2–8°C, tightly closed, protected from moisture and light
- Photolysis: Cleaves at 365 nm irradiation
Flexible Packaging Solutions
XinChem provides a range of packaging options to accommodate diverse research needs, from laboratory-scale quantities (100 mg, 500 mg, 1 g, 5 g) to bulk quantities. Customized packaging solutions are available upon request, ensuring safe handling, storage, and transportation.
3. Application Fields
As a versatile photocaged amino acid, O-(2-Nitrobenzyl)-L-tyrosine Hydrochloride (CAS# 207727-86-4) exhibits wide application value across multiple research fields:
Chemical Biology and Protein Research:
- Genetic encoding into proteins in E. coli, mammalian cells, and cell-free systems via engineered tyrosyl-tRNA synthetase/tRNA_CUA orthogonal pairs
- Light-triggered “on-switch” control of protein function
- Study of ion channels (e.g., nicotinic acetylcholine receptor)
- Investigation of kinases, phosphatases, and tyrosine-dependent enzymes
- Spatiotemporal control of tyrosine-dependent biological processes
Peptide Synthesis:
- Specialized building block for caged peptide synthesis
- Solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) applications
- Synthesis of caged neuropeptide Y and other bioactive peptides
Neuroscience Research:
- Study of neurotransmitter release and receptor activation
- Investigation of synaptic plasticity with millisecond precision
- Tool for understanding neurological disorders and brain function
Drug Discovery:
- Target validation for tyrosine-dependent therapeutic targets
- Mechanistic studies of signaling pathways
- Development of photoresponsive therapeutic approaches
Enzyme Research:
- Inhibitor studies of human tyrosinase
- Cancer cell growth inhibition research
4. Service Support
Technical Expertise and Customized Solutions
XinChem’s team of experienced chemists and chemical biologists provides full technical support throughout the customer journey—from product selection and specification development to application guidance and troubleshooting. Whether customers require optimization of protein encoding protocols, guidance on photolysis conditions, or assistance with regulatory documentation, XinChem’s technical experts are ready to help.
Global Logistics and Reliable Supply
With established supply chains serving markets across Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific, and beyond, XinChem ensures timely delivery and consistent product availability. The company’s logistics team manages all aspects of international shipping, including customs clearance and documentation, with appropriate handling for self-reactive materials.
Regulatory Support
XinChem provides comprehensive documentation to support regulatory compliance, including Safety Data Sheets (SDS), Certificates of Analysis (COA), and other required certificates. The company stays current with evolving regulatory requirements in major markets, helping customers navigate the complexities of global trade.
5. Reasons to Choose XinChem
- Professionalism: Extensive experience and deep expertise in photocaged amino acid synthesis and supply.
- Quality: Rigorous quality control, consistent enantiomeric purity, and adherence to international standards.
- Reliability: Stable supply, competitive pricing, and timely delivery.
- Flexibility: Customized solutions to meet diverse research needs, including custom synthesis and packaging.
- Service: Responsive technical support and comprehensive documentation.
Contact us today to start your partnership with XinChem!
Website: www.xinchem.com
Email: sales1@xinchem.com
WhatsApp: +86 18049800532
Post time: Aug-26-2026