Conformation Dynamics of Single Polymer Strands in Solution. Issue 32 (8th July 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bae, Yuna; Ha, Min Young; Bang, Ki‐Taek; Yang, Sanghee; Kang, Sung Yun; Kim, Joodeok; Sung, Jongbaek; Kang, Sungsu; Kang, Dohun; Lee, Won Bo; Choi, Tae‐Lim; Park, Jungwon
• Is Part Of: Advanced materials. Volume 34:Issue 32(2022)
• Page Start: n/a
• Page End: n/a
• Publication Date: 2022-07-08
• Subjects: conformational dynamics -- dendronized polymers -- semiflexible chain -- single‐chain dynamics -- single‐molecule imaging; Materials -- Periodicals; Chemical vapor deposition -- Periodicals; 620.11
• DOI: 10.1002/adma.202202353
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0935-9648

Abstract

Abstract: Conformational changes in macromolecules significantly affect their functions and assembly into high‐level structures. Despite advances in theoretical and experimental studies, investigations into the intrinsic conformational variations and dynamic motions of single macromolecules remain challenging. Here, liquid‐phase transmission electron microscopy enables the real‐time tracking of single‐chain polymers. Imaging linear polymers, synthetically dendronized with conjugated aromatic groups, in organic solvent confined within graphene liquid cells, directly exhibits chain‐resolved conformational dynamics of individual semiflexible polymers. These experimental and theoretical analyses reveal that the dynamic conformational transitions of the single‐chain polymer originate from the degree of intrachain interactions. In situ observations also show that such dynamics of the single‐chain polymer are significantly affected by environmental factors, including surfaces and interfaces. Abstract : Graphene liquid cell transmission electron microscopy visualizes the chain‐resolved conformational dynamics of a single dendronized polymer diffusing in confined organic solvent. Direct observations show the equilibrium and non‐equilibrium chain‐dynamics of semiflexible polymers. The solvated semiflexible chain fluctuates between coiled and stretched conformations. Non‐equilibrium chain motions including drag and cleavage, due to the interfacial interaction, are also observed.