ignition casino UP scientists make thermoresponsive polymers for biomedical use
Updated:2024-10-24 03:43 Views:133![Synthesis of two different architectures of copolymers of MMA and DEGMEMA using RAFT polymerization in [HPY][PF6]. (Photo credit: Madrid et al., 2024)](https://technology.inquirer.net/files/2024/10/thermoresponsive-polymers.png)
Synthesis of two different architectures of copolymers of MMA and DEGMEMA using RAFT polymerization in [HPY][PF6]. (Photo credit: Madrid et al., 2024)
MANILA, PHILIPPINES – University of the Philippines (UP) scientists have created thermoresponsive polymers that promise astounding biomedical applications.
Thermoresponsive polymers are molecules that undergo significant changes in response to temperature. Researchers Mark Ward and Theoni Georgiou wrote in their 2011 study that this material helps with drug delivery, gene transfer, and other biomedical purposes.
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Article continues after this advertisementFor example, poly(N-isopropyl acrylamide) keeps drugs intact as it passes through the stomach. Then, it breaks down once it reaches the intestines to release the medicines.
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In response, UP Diliman College of Science (UPD-CS) chemists have identified a simple, inexpensive, and environmentally friendly method of creating thermoresponsive polymers. Leading the research are:
Article continues after this advertisement UPD-CS Institute of Chemistry researcher Ludhovik Luiz Madrid UPD-CS Institute of Chemistry researcher Dr. Susan Arco Natural Sciences Research Institute researcher Lynon PerezThey used monomers di(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate (DEGMEMA) and methyl methacrylate (MMA) in a hexyl pyridinium ionic liquid, N-hexyl pyridinium hexafluorophosphate ([HPY][PF6]).
Article continues after this advertisementThe researchers synthesized linear and hyperbranched structures using ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA) as the crosslinking agent for the hyperbranched copolymer.
Article continues after this advertisementTheir thermoresponsive polymers were biocompatible, meaning they could interact with living tissues without causing adverse effects.
“RAFT polymerization helps control the growth of polymer chains by mitigating the formation of chains that can no longer grow (a.k.a. ‘dead’ polymers),” Madrid explained, “thereby creating a narrower molecular weight distribution, which can allow more tailored polymer designs or properties.”
Article continues after this advertisementTheir study opens new polymer research possibilities. “The results open up the potential for using other hexylpyridinium ionic liquids to create dual-responsive polymers, which are valuable for biomedical applications such as drug delivery,” he concluded.
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