Biodegradable Ionomers for the Loading and Release of Proteins : Formation, Characterization, Mechanism, and Consequence of Water Uptake

• The increased understanding of proteins and the human genome point towards a future in which selective proteins may replace synthetic drugs in the general cure of disease. In this scenario the ability of controlled and gentle release of proteins provide the key for successful treatment. To address the ability of full protein delivery we have developed a series of telechelic biodegradable ionomers based on poly (trimethylene carbonate) carrying zwitterionic, anionic or cationic functional groups. The introduction of polar end-groups provides a material with unique properties that directs the introduced functionality within the material bulk but also to the material surface if water is introduced. Bulk aggregation provide a low elastic modulus material and the ability to surface enrich provide the on-set of water swelling. The latter finally results in a co-continuous water-ionomer structure that engulfs and stores proteins simply by soaking the material in an aqueous protein solution. Following protein loading the material can be dried and re-immersed in water so that release occurs. Our results, including both the careful synthesis and the ability to load and release proteins, provides new possibilities for full protein delivery.

Ämnesord

TEKNIK OCH TEKNOLOGIER  -- Kemiteknik -- Polymerteknologi (hsv//swe)

ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY  -- Chemical Engineering -- Polymer Technologies (hsv//eng)

Nyckelord

Physics

Fysik

Engineering Science with specialization in Nanotechnology and Functional Materials

Teknisk fysik med inriktning mot nanoteknologi och funktionella material

Publikations- och innehållstyp

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