Cysteine derivatives are compounds that are chemically related to the amino acid cysteine, which contains a thiol (-SH) group. These derivatives can include modifications such as acetylation or oxidation, which can alter their properties and functions. Cysteine derivatives play important roles in biological processes, including protein structure and function, as they can form disulfide bonds that stabilize protein shapes. In addition to their biological significance, cysteine derivatives are also used in various industrial applications. For example, they can be found in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food additives due to their antioxidant properties. Understanding these derivatives helps in the development of new therapeutic agents and enhances the effectiveness of existing products.