Objetivo
The design of sequences in copolymer chains gives a practically infinite number of possibilities to tailor the conformational properties of the emerging macromolecules and hence to control there functional properties on the nano-metre scale. Nature has chosen this way in the evolution of the main biopolymers (proteins, RNA and DNA): the molecular basis for their ability to perform sophisticated functions is associated with unique sequences of monomer units obtained as a result of biological evolution. In this project, we adopt a biomimetic approach to design sequences in synthetic copolymers. In particular, we investigate the possibilities to obtain "protein-like" copolymers, which remain soluble in aqueous medium after transition to the globular state. To achieve this aim, the formed globule should have a hydrophobic core surrounded by stabilizing hydrophilic "corona". Such nano-scale organisation can be realized only for special copolymer sequences. In the previous project INTAS-OPEN-97-0678 the methods for obtaining of protein-like copolymers and the investigation of their properties were performed mainly using theoretical methods and methods of computer simulations.
Simultaneously, first successful experimental realizations of protein-like copolymers have been reported. In the present project, the main emphasis is shifted to the experimental realization of sequence design of protein-like copolymers. Several synthetic approaches are proposed. These approaches will be tested in the collaborative work of four experimental and four theoretical and computer simulation groups. The close collaboration of these disciplines is essential: theoreticians can find guidance from the experimental work and vice versa. The importance of this synergy cannot be overestimated as the systems are characterized by many parameters. The computational work will focus on the effect of the presence of solvent or charged monomer units. The theoretical work will deal with chemical reactions from hydrophilic to hydrophobic groups, as well as put special emphasis on the fundamental problem of different ways of evolution of sequences, namely "ascending" and "descending" branches of biological evolution.
Convocatoria de propuestas
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00014 Helsinki
Finlandia