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Sulfoxide Polymers - A New Paradigm in Polymer Design (2021-2024)

Abstract

Low fouling polymers are important for moderating interactions of molecules and particles with cells. In pharmaceutical sciences they are essential tools for extending the pharmacokinetics of dissolved drugs. However, the widely-used low-fouling polymer, poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) has been recently reported to induce formation of anti-PEG antibodies. Polymeric alternatives to PEG are thus desperately needed. We introduce in this project super-hydrophilic polymers incorporating sulfoxide groups, mimics of the polar solvent DMSO. The project aims to explore how polymer architecture can enhance biocompatibility and reduce biofouling. The outcome will be a new class of low-fouling polymeric materials with broad application in the biosciences.

Experts

Professor Andrew Whittaker

Affiliate of Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Green Electrochemical Transformati
ARC COE for Green Electrochemical Transformation of Carbon Dioxide
Faculty of Engineering, Architecture and Information Technology
Affiliate Professor
School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences
Faculty of Science
Professorial Research Fellow and Senior Group Leader
Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology
Andrew Whittaker
Andrew Whittaker

Dr Changkui Fu

NHMRC Emerging Leadership Fellow
Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology
Changkui Fu