Telechelic polymers by RAFT polymerization and application to stable bFGF-polymer conjugates

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This project will continue work on the use of controlled radical polymerizations to synthesize well-defined protein-polymer conjugates. Many proteins exist as multimers in the active state, yet most conjugates contain only one protein due to the lack of high yielding, efficient synthetic strategies to make the polymers. In this research, a straightforward method to synthesize biocompatible polymers with protein-reactive groups at one or both ends will be developed. The polymers will then be applied to produce conjugates of a growth factor that is critical in wound healing. Because this growth factor exists as a dimer in the active state, the growth factor conjugate is expected to be more bioactive. Conjugates containing polymers that mimic polysaccharides in the body will also be prepared to form growth factors resistant to denaturation upon application and storage. With this award, the Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry Program is supporting the research of Professor Heather D. Maynard of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at the University of California, Los Angeles. Professor Maynard's research focuses on the synthesis of well-defined multimeric protein-polymer conjugates by controlled radical polymerizations. This work will contribute to the synthesis of active and stable conjugates for therapeutic applications. Successful development of the methodology will have an impact on the polymer, biomedical and materials communities.