Covalently reactive transition state analogs and methods of use thereof

A covalently reactive transition state antigen analog (CRTSA), comprising the following structural formula:

• R1-E-R2
• wherein R1 is a peptide sequence of an epitope of a target protein antigen, E is an electrophilic covalently reactive center bearing a partial or full negative charge and R2 is an electron withdrawing or electron donating substituent, R2 optionally further comprising a flanking peptide sequence, further comprising Y between R1 and E, wherein Y is a positively charged amino acid adjacent to the electrophilic center selected from the group consisting of lysine, arginine or analogs thereof.