Synthesis and characterization of a new substrate of Photinus pyralis luciferase: 4-methyl-D-luciferin.

A derivative of luciferin, 4-methyl-D-luciferin, was synthesized in low yield, and characterized by its ultraviolet and fluorescence spectra. The spectra of luciferin and its derivative are very similar. 4-Methyl-D-luciferin is a substrate of Photinus pyralis luciferase, and it causes light emission in luminometric assays.