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Novel α,α‐Bischolesteryl Functional (Co)Polymers: RAFT Radical Polymerization Synthesis and Preliminary Solution Characterization
Author(s) -
Roth Peter J.,
Davis Thomas P.,
Lowe Andrew B.
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
macromolecular rapid communications
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.348
H-Index - 154
eISSN - 1521-3927
pISSN - 1022-1336
DOI - 10.1002/marc.201300889
Subject(s) - copolymer , polymersome , raft , polymer chemistry , acrylate , radical polymerization , reversible addition−fragmentation chain transfer polymerization , chain transfer , polymerization , polymer , aqueous solution , chemistry , materials science , organic chemistry , amphiphile
Well‐defined poly[pentafluorophenyl (meth)acrylate] (PPFP(M)A) homopolymers are prepared by RAFT radical polymerization mediated by a novel chain transfer agent containing two cholesteryl groups in the R‐group fragment. Subsequent reaction with a series of small‐molecule amines in the presence of an appropriate Michael acceptor for ω‐group end‐capping yields a library of novel bischolesteryl functional hydrophilic homopolymers. Two examples of statistical copolymers are also prepared including a biologically relevant sugar derivative. Specific examples of these homopolymers are examined with respect to their ability to self assemble in aqueous media—a process driven entirely by the cholesteryl end groups. In all instances evaluated, and under the preparation conditions examined, the homopolymers aggregate clearly forming polymersomes spanning an impressive size range.