Precision Polymers—Modern Tools to Understand and Program Macromolecular Interactions

Abstract

AB-block copolymers composed of a common synthetic polymer part and a monodisperse, monomer sequence-defined segment are considered belonging to the class of "Precision Polymers." This overview summarizes the possibilities that arise from those precisely adjustable, functional polymers for materials science applications. The freely programmable monomer sequence of the discrete peptide segment allows adjusting properties such as interaction capabilities. This can be exploited to (i) specifically solubilize and transport low molecular weight drugs, (ii) to pack DNA, (iii) to direct crystallization, or (iv) to modulate adhesion behavior of cells on material surfaces. As evident from proteins, the room to improve the precision of synthetic macromolecules will offer plenty of opportunities.

Calcium Ions to Remotely Control the Reversible Switching of Secondary and Quaternary Structures in Bioconjugates

“…The bioconjugate I was synthesized by automated solidphase-supported peptide synthesis, combining a poly(ethylene oxide) block (PEO, M n % 3200) with an (EL) 5 nFG peptide segment. The peptide sequence consisted of five ; the peptide adopts a random coil.…”

Hybrid Block Copolymers Constituted by Peptides and Synthetic Polymers: An Overview of Synthetic Approaches, Supramolecular Behavior and Potential Applications

“…So far the number of applications of biohybrid copolymers has remained to date rather limited, most of the work being focused on drug delivery applications. However the potential of such materials has been only weakly explored and important developments are emerging in other biomedical fields like tissue engineering and adaptive materials design and even in other areas like chemistry (e.g., chirality and programmable reactions) and material science (e.g., biomineralization) [50,[87][88][89].…”

ATRP in the design of functional materials for biomedical applications

“…Meanwhile, polymer chemistry has experienced increased sophistication in terms of what can be controlled. “Smart” polymers with stimuli-sensitivity, new architectures, and greater control over MW and MWD have driven polymer research over the last 10–15 years [5,9,10]. In this context, it is logical that advanced synthetic techniques that can construct precision materials will lead to new applications and uses in biomedical engineering.…”