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Updated: May 20, 2026

Methods for the Self-integration of Megamolecular Biopolymers on the Drying Air-LC Interface
Published on: April 7, 2017
"Isothermal" LCST transitions triggered by bioreduction of single polymer end-groups
Matthew J Summers1, Daniel J Phillips, Matthew I Gibson
1Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Gibbet Hill Road, Coventry, UK CV4 7AL.
Abstract:
The α-termini of RAFT-derived thermoresponsive polymers were functionalised via thiol exchange with pyridyl disulfide. Addition of hydrophilic end-groups dramatically increased the observed cloud point of the polymers, without changing the composition of the main chain. Selective cleavage of the disulfide-linked end-groups was observed under conditions intended to mimic intracellular glutathione concentration. This allowed the thermoresponsive behaviour to be 'switched on' without the need for a temperature stimulus - an 'isothermal' switch.
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