(1R,8S,9s)-Bicyclo[6.1.0]non-4-yn-9-ylmethyl N-succinimidyl carbonate may be used to functionalize the primary amines of the lysine residue of recombinant elastin-like proteins (ELPs). These functionalized ELPs quickly undergo cross-linking via bio-orthogonal strain-promoted azide-alkyne cycloaddition reactions to form hydrogels with high gelation kinetics and tunable mechanics, making them useful biomaterials for cell encapsulation.{67
It may also be used to synthesize bicyclononyne functionalized poly(ethylene glycol) polymer coatings with anti-fouling properties towards protein adhesion and cell adhesion for supramolecular ureidopyrimidinone (UPy) based materials.