Chapter 14, Problem 14.52AP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The structure disulfides should be identified when the amino acid cysteine undergoes oxidation.

Concept introduction:

Thiols:

The general structure of thiol is $\text{R-SH}$, and it is also called as thioalcohols or mercaptans.

Oxidation of thiols:

Thiol undergoes oxidation using ${\text{O}}_{\text{2}}$ (mild oxidizing agents) or ${\text{Br}}_{\text{2}}$ (mild oxidizing agents) which yields disulfides ($\text{RS-SR}$). During the oxidation reaction two thiols are joining together, and a new bond forms between the two sulfur atoms.