Photoactive, heterobifunctional cross-linking reagent. Typically, initial reaction couples via ester to primary amine by amide bond formation in the pH range 6.5-8.5. Second bonding occurs during UV irradiation (250-350 nm) via reactive nitrene. The latter bonding is rapid and non-specific.
Caution
Reducing agents such as thiols may reduce the azide to amine and should be avoided. Initial manipulations and coupling should be performed under reduced light.
Other Notes
Note that the nitro substituent provides an absorption band at a longer wavelength compared to simple aryl azide.