Synthetic polymers with protein like structure and activity
Abstract
Proteins epitomize the structure function relationship in polymeric materials. The polymer community well understands that protein primary structure dictates secondary and tertiary folded structures, which in turn dictate the complex functions and behaviors exhibited by these materials. Protein inspired polymeric materials, part of a larger category of bioinspired materials, represents a frontier area in polymer chemistry owing to their potential to contribute to a number of current technological grand challenges. The research goal of this proposal is to synthesize polymers that mimic the primary, secondary, tertiary, and higher- ordered structure of proteins. In doing so we aim to impart protein like function, such as controllable assembly and disassembly or enzyme like catalytic activity, into synthetic polymers, thus creating a class of materials with unique properties and unparalleled capabilities. We will accomplish this research goal by examining, in parallel, several design aspects and functions found in protein chemistry as described in the research objectives below: Research Objective 1 Synthesis of polymers with defined sequences via templated step?growth polymerization: mimicking primary structure Research Objective 2 Well-defined single-chain nanoparticles (SCNP): mimicking secondary and tertiary structure Research Objective 3 Controlled, on demand self-assembly/disassembly of polymer nanostructures: mimicking quaternary structure Research Objective 4 Synthetic enzymes: mimicking protein function Materials described in this proposal relate to both the Precision Polymeric Materials and Complex Adaptive Polymeric Systems thrusts of interest to the ARO Polymer Chemistry program. Technology derived from the chemistry proposed here could significantly benefit the Army s needs in smart, environmentally responsive, and adaptive or self healing materials; all critical capabilities given the level of extreme and rapidly changing conditions to which a soldier is subject.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Feb 14, 2019
- Source ID
- W911NF1810216
Entities
People
- Erik B. Berda
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- United States Army
- University of New Hampshire