POLY 409 |
| Our recent research efforts have focused on the introduction of well-defined macromolecular topology to synthetic gene transfer agents, and understanding the influence of topology on cell viability and transfection efficiency. Linear and branched poly(dimethylamino ethyl methacrylate) (PDMAEMA) were prepared using both conventional and controlled (RAFT) free radical polymerization methodologies. Solution rheological measurements coupled with dynamic light scattering analysis were used to ascertain the influence of topology on DNA binding and condensation. Significant effects of molecular weight and degree of branching were observed for various synthetic vectors. In addition, electrospinning of functionalized phospholipids, tailored surfactants, and supramolecular polylactides will be discussed as an avenue to prepare biocompatible scaffolds for cell impregnation and drug delivery. Both solution and melt electrospinning operations permitted the formation of micron scale, non-woven, fibrous scaffolds. The role of surfactant and phospholipid structure on the formation of fibers will be discussed, and the improvement of mechanical properties through the incorporation of suitable photo-reactive sites to the amphiphilic structures will be described. Special attention will be devoted to the design of novel monomeric phospholipids that are suitable for subsequent photo-polymerization in the solid state. |
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Industrial Sponsors Award in Honor of James Hedrick
1:30 PM-5:35 PM, Tuesday, 12 September 2006 San Francisco Marriott -- Salon B2, Oral
Division of Polymer Chemistry |