Polypept(o)ides combine the properties of polypeptoids with polypeptides and thus enable the combination of stealth-like properties of polysarcosine with the fucntionality and secondary structure formation of polypeptides in one biocompatible class of polymers. We could recently demonstrate that β-sheets in polypeptides segments lead to a one dimensional self-assembly process of polypept(o)ides into worm-like micelles. Most importantly, in the presence of chaotropic agents, e.g. thiourea, the β-sheets are converted into random coils and lead to a self-assembly process controlled exclusively by the volume ratio of hydrophobic to hydrophilic block. Therefore, secondary structures in polypeptides can be used to direct the self-assembly process of block copolymers in solution.<br/>In addition, the morphology of micelles can be further fine tuned by the applied self-assembly conditions, polymer microstructure, homopolymer addition or template structures. We present multiple micelles morphologies, which are normally not accessible by blockcopolymer self-assembly.<br/>Since most micelles are based on reactive polypeptides the structures can be preserved and functionality can be introduced by core cross-linking. Therefore, the presented strategy enables precise control over size, morphology and function of biocompatible polymer micelles.

Secondary structure controlled self-assembly of di- and triblock copolypept(o)ides: From solution to template assisted self-assembly

256th National Meeting (2018)

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