CAREER: Transition Metal Initiators for the Synthesis of Well-Defined Polypeptides

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Professor Deming's research focuses on the use of transition metal complexes as initiators for the synthesis of well-defined polypeptides. Polymerization of alpha-amino acid N-carboxyanhydrides using various Cu, Ni, Pd and Zn complexes provides a nonbiological alternative for the preparation of polypeptides, including block co-polymers expected to display properties rivaling those of naturally occurring structural proteins. Light scattering, viscometry, and x-ray diffraction, as well as mechanical testing and processing, will permit characterization and evaluation of the materials produced. Professor Deming will introduce a biomaterials curriculum at the undergraduate and graduate levels, presenting core macromolecular courses and covering biopolymer synthesis and the structure, dynamics, and processing of biomaterials. With this CAREER award, the Synthetic Organic Program supports the research and educational activities of Professor Timothy J. Deming of the Materials and Chemistry Departments at the University of California, Santa Barbara. Professor Deming's research focuses on the use of transition metal complexes as initiators for the formation of well-defined polypeptides, specifically targeting materials which are expected to mimic naturally occurring structural polypeptides such as spider silk and collagen. These materials are of particular interest because of their excellent physical properties, biocompatability, biodegradability, and potential for biomedical applications. Professor Deming's educational activities are focused on the development of a new curriculum that consists of a core sequence of courses covering the science of large molecules and additional courses focused on biological materials. This training, at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, will be complemented by student involvement in biomaterials research programs, affording a unique opportunity to participate in multidisciplinary research and laying the groundwork for effective future collaborative research efforts.