Polydepsipeptoids - a novel biomaterials plattform

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Robert Luxenhofer
• Subject Area: Polymer Materials ; Biomaterials
• Term: from 2014 to 2015
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 257911706

Polyesters and polyesteramides (also called polydepsipeptides) are highly successful biomaterials that are employed in surgical sutures, biomedical implants, drug delivery systems but also biodegradable plastics such as cups for beverages. Nevertheless, it remains a significant demand for new biomaterials with widely tuneable physicochemical characteristics and degradation profile. Here, we propose the synthesis of a novel class of polymers, N-substituted polyesteramides (polydepsipeptoids), which are accessible via a modular and facile synthetic copolymerization route. The novel materials are expected to combine the favourable properties of polyester and polypeptoids. The polymer properties will be systematically varied by copolymerization. The thermal properties and the degradation profile in dependence of the pH value of the novel materials will be characterized in detail. Finally, we will provide proof-of-principle for the preparation of non-woven fibre mats and fibres. In the future, the novel biomaterials are expected to be highly valuable for the preparation of biodegradable fibres, films, scaffolds or drug delivery systems with tailored and enhanced properties.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants