Quantitative study on the antifreeze protein mimetic ice growth inhibition properties of poly(ampholytes) derived from vinyl-based polymers

摘要: Antifreeze (glyco) proteins (AF(G)Ps) from the blood of polar fish species are extremely potent ice recrystallization inhibitors (IRI), but difficult to synthesise or extract natural sources. Despite this challenge, materials which display IRI appealing due their ability enhance cellular cryopreservation, for applications including regenerative and transplantation medicine. Here, poly(ampholytes), contain a mixture cationic anionic side chains quantitatively evaluated activity. Poly(aminoethyl methacrylate), obtained by RAFT polymerization, is functionalised with succinic anhydride generate poly(ampholytes). The charge balance shown be crucial, only 50 : 50 mixtures having strong activity, also scales molecular weight. This first example non-hydroxylated synthetic polymer quantifiable activity raises questions about mechanism IRI, as polymers have no obvious ice-binding motif. ampholytic structure transferable carbohydrate-centred retained, poly(betaines) inactive.