The synthesis of homogeneous polymeric nanoparticles of defined size and shape remains challenging using traditional solution syntheses. However, biological structures have evolved to self-assemble precisely into homogeneous nanostructures of varying size, shape, and composition. Biological nanoparticles are thus emerging as a source of ordered nanoscopic materials, where the most common examples are derived from viruses. Here we report the synthesis and studies of protein:polymer composite materials derived from viral platforms. The use of bacteriophage Qbeta and Tobacco Mosaic Virus as multivalent macroinitiators for atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) is described. The resulting conjugates retained the homogeneity and structural attributes associated with the biological template. However, the growth of high molecular weight polymers allows for dense incorporation of biologically active agents into these materials. We are currently exploring their use in diverse biomedical applications including drug delivery and the development of contrast agents for 19F and 1H MRI.

Protein: Polymer hybrid nanoparticles for drug delivery and molecular imaging

245th National Meeting (2013)

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