Protein–Polymer Supramolecular Assemblies: A Key Combination for Multifunctionality

Authors

  • Cornelia G. Palivan University of Basel, Department of Chemistry, Klingelbergstrasse 80, CH-4056 Basel, Switzerland. cornelia.palivan@unibas.ch
  • Xiaoyan Zhang University of Basel, Department of Chemistry, Klingelbergstrasse 80, CH-4056 Basel, Switzerland
  • Wolfgang Meier University of Basel, Department of Chemistry, Klingelbergstrasse 80, CH-4056 Basel, Switzerland. wolfgang.meier@unibas.ch

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.2533/chimia.2013.791

Keywords:

Amphiphilic copolymers, Enzymes, Nanoreactors, Polymer membranes, Proteins

Abstract

2D/3D structures resulting from self-assembly of amphiphilic block copolymers can be combined with bioactive compounds, such as proteins and enzymes, to create supramolecular assemblies with specific desired properties and functionality. Chemical tuning of the architecture and properties of supramolecular assemblies to accommodate sensitive biomolecules allows the development of new soft hybrid materials that benefit from the robustness of polymers and from the functionality of biomolecules. The encapsulation/insertion of biomolecules (enzymes, mimics, proteins) in self-assembling block copolymer vesicles enables design of 'nanoreactors' both in solutions and at surfaces for highly diverse applications, ranging from production of antibiotics to creation of artificial organelles. When membrane proteins are inserted into polymer membranes, it is possible to generate functional membranes or active surfaces with a rapid and specific response. In addition, the selective binding of ligand-terminated polymers holds potential for targeted delivery of drugs, or for immobilization on solid support, to provide functional 3D assemblies on an extended surface.

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Published

2013-11-27

How to Cite

[1]
C. G. Palivan, X. Zhang, W. Meier, Chimia 2013, 67, 791, DOI: 10.2533/chimia.2013.791.