Synthesis of a novel degradable polymer susceptible to oxidation
Grade Level at Time of Presentation
Sophomore
Institution
Western Kentucky University
KY House District #
17
KY Senate District #
32
Faculty Advisor/ Mentor
Lawrence Hill, PhD
Department
Dept. of Chemistry
Abstract
Oxidative stress and reactive oxygen species such as peroxide, hydroxyl radical, and superoxide can disrupt homeostasis within the body and cells and lead to diseases if there is hyperconcentration. There are currently few polymeric systems capable of degradation and release when encountering biologically relevant concentrations of hydrogen peroxide to target these areas in the body. We are synthesizing novel degradable polymers with boronic esters to enable degradation under oxidative stress. We will discuss the 4-step synthesis of our degradable monomer, proof of concept experiments with poly(methyl methacrylate), and our progress towards atom transfer radical polyaddition.
Synthesis of a novel degradable polymer susceptible to oxidation
Oxidative stress and reactive oxygen species such as peroxide, hydroxyl radical, and superoxide can disrupt homeostasis within the body and cells and lead to diseases if there is hyperconcentration. There are currently few polymeric systems capable of degradation and release when encountering biologically relevant concentrations of hydrogen peroxide to target these areas in the body. We are synthesizing novel degradable polymers with boronic esters to enable degradation under oxidative stress. We will discuss the 4-step synthesis of our degradable monomer, proof of concept experiments with poly(methyl methacrylate), and our progress towards atom transfer radical polyaddition.