Protein-polymer conjugates combine diverse therapeutic applications with high biological specificity and are widely used in medicine. However, protein instability during transport, storage, and delivery increases costs for both patients and researchers. Additionally, bioaccumulation of synthetic polymers may lead to long-term toxicological effects upon repeated dosage. We have previously synthesized polymers containing trehalose side-chains, which stabilize proteins against environmental stressors. Here, we describe the redevelopment of these bioinspired polymers to contain a hydrolytically degradable ester in the backbone, resulting in biodegradable trehalose glycopolymers. These polyesters can be used as additives or protein-reactive end-groups may be installed for covalent conjugation to relevant proteins. Retention of protein activity was then measured after subjection to environmental stressors. Additionally, cytotoxicity of the polymer and degradation products were measured in cell culture. Synthesis of polymers and conjugates, ability to retain protein activity in the presence of stress, and cytotoxicity, as well as their relevance to next-generation protein-polymer conjugates will be discussed.

Biodegradable trehalose glycopolymers for protein stabilization

251st National Meeting (2016)

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