The pursuit of precision in macromolecular science: Concepts, trends, and perspectives. (24th October 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Xu, Lianjie; Zhang, Wen-Bin
• Is Part Of: Polymer. Volume 155(2018)
• Page Start: 235
• Page End: 247
• Publication Date: 2018-10-24
• Subjects: Polymers -- Periodicals; Polymerization -- Periodicals; Polymères -- Périodiques; Polymérisation -- Périodiques; 547.7
• DOI: 10.1016/j.polymer.2018.09.017
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0032-3861

Abstract

Abstract: The pursuit of precision in polymer synthesis and assembly has been the Holy Grail of macromolecular science. Nowadays, precision macromolecules have come to the interface of organic chemistry, polymer science, and biotechnology. We take an interdisciplinary approach to achieving precision at both molecular and supramolecular level in the hope of gaining unique functions. Specifically, sequential "click" chemistry has been utilized to enable modular, robust and efficient construction of giant molecules; cellular synthesis of proteins with complex topologies and/or mechanical bonds have been accomplished using genetically encoded peptide-protein chemistry. These precise macromolecules exhibit intriguing and versatile self-assembly behaviors both in solution and in bulk. Not only does the assembly exhibit a remarkable sensitivity to the primary chemical structures, it also leads to unconventional phases in soft matter, including Frank-Kasper phases and quasicrystals. Based on these results and other peoples' work, we reflect on the role of "precision" in the interplay among chemical structure, physical structure, and function, which stimulates us to further pursue precision macromolecules thoughtfully in specific context to the extent that is both necessary and possible. Graphical abstract: