Poly(ethylene glycol) 2-mercaptoethyl ether acetic acid
Poly(ethylene glycol) 2-mercaptoethyl ether acetic acid (CAS: 165729-81-7) is a heterobifunctional PEG derivative featuring both a terminal thiol (-SH) and a terminal carboxylic acid (-COOH) group. With an average molecular weight of approximately 3,400-3,500 g/mol, this compound is primarily utilised in bioconjugation, drug delivery systems, and surface functionalisation due to its ability to link molecules or surfaces through distinct chemical reactions.
- IUPAC
- mercaptoPEG acid,mercaptopoly(ethylene glycol) carboxylic acid,mercaptopolyoxyethylene acetic acid,thio-PEG,thiol-PEG-carboxylate,thiol-PEG-acid
- Synonyms
- mercaptoPEG acidmercaptopoly(ethylene glycol) carboxylic acidmercaptopolyoxyethylene acetic acidthio-PEGthiol-PEG-carboxylatethiol-PEG-acid

Bioconjugation
This reagent enables the covalent attachment of biomolecules. The thiol group can react with maleimides or other activated thiol-reactive groups, while the carboxylic acid can be activated for amide or ester bond formation, facilitating complex bioconjugate synthesis.
Drug Delivery Systems
As a component in drug delivery, its PEG structure offers stealth properties, increasing circulation time, while the terminal functional groups allow for targeted delivery or attachment to therapeutic agents.
Surface Functionalisation
Poly(ethylene glycol) 2-mercaptoethyl ether acetic acid can be used to modify surfaces, creating biocompatible coatings or introducing specific reactive sites for further immobilisation of proteins, peptides, or other molecules.
Hydrogel Formation
The bifunctional nature allows this molecule to act as a crosslinker in the formation of PEG-based hydrogels, which are widely used in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications.
| Linear formula | HSC2H4O(C2H4O)nCH2CO2H |
|---|---|
| Form | solid |
| Storage temperature | −20°C |
| Application | Reported applications include: bioconjugation, drug delivery, PEG hydrogel, crosslinker, and surface functionalization. |
| Flash point | >318 °C / >604.4 °F |
|---|---|
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
| Mol Wt | PEG average Mn 3,400 (n~77)average Mn 3,500 |
|---|---|
| Transition Temp | Tm 52-57 °C |
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is Poly(ethylene glycol) 2-mercaptoethyl ether acetic acid used for?
+
This compound is primarily used for bioconjugation, drug delivery systems, surface functionalisation, and as a crosslinker in PEG hydrogel formation.
What are the CAS number and chemical formula?
+
The CAS number is 165729-81-7. The linear formula is HSC2H4O(C2H4O)nCH2CO2H.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
+
Tech Serve Solutions supplies this product as a research grade chemical. We do not represent it as USP, BP, or EP grade.
What are the safety and handling considerations?
+
This compound is classified under WGK 2 in Germany. It has a high flash point, exceeding 318 °C (604.4 °F). Handle with appropriate personal protective equipment in a well-ventilated area.
How is this product packed, shipped, and exported?
+
Products are typically packed in sealed containers to maintain integrity. Tech Serve Solutions is a global supplier and exporter of fine chemicals.
How can I request a sample or quote?
+
Please contact our sales team via the website or direct enquiry channels to request a sample or a formal quotation for Poly(ethylene glycol) 2-mercaptoethyl ether acetic acid.
▶ Related products

(2,3-Epoxypropyl)benzene
Polymer Science

(2-Boc-amino)ethyl methacrylate
C11H19NO4
Polymer Science
(3,5,5-Trimethylcyclohex-2-enylidene)malononitrile
Polymer Science

(3-Acrylamidopropyl)trimethylammonium chloride solution
Polymer Science

1,1,1-Trifluoro-2-(trifluoromethyl)-2-hydroxy-4-methyl-5-pentyl methacrylate
Polymer Science

1,1,1-Tris(4-hydroxyphenyl)ethane
Polymer Science

1,1-Cyclohexanediacetic acid
Polymer Science

1,12-Diisocyanatododecane
Polymer Science
▶ Explore more

3-Methyl-1,5-di-p-tolyl-1,4-pentazadiene
Chemical Synthesis

3-Methyl-1,5-pentanediol
Chemical Synthesis

3-Methyl-1-(2-methylphenyl)-1H-pyrazol-5-amine
C11H13N3
Chemical Synthesis
3-Methyl-1-(3′-sulfoamidophenyl)-5-pyrazolone
C10H11N3O3S
Chemical Synthesis