Supramolecular nucleobase-functionalized polymers: synthesis and potential biological applications

Area of Science:

• Polymer Chemistry
• Biomaterials Science
• Organic Chemistry

Background:

• Nucleobase-functionalized covalent polymers are emerging materials with tunable properties.
• These polymers show promise for advanced biomedical applications, despite current limitations compared to DNA-based materials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in nucleobase-functionalized polymers.
• To summarize synthetic strategies and explore diverse applications.
• To identify challenges and future directions for this material class.

Main Methods:

• Review of diverse synthetic strategies for nucleobase-functionalized polymers.
• Emphasis on template polymerization as a novel synthesis method.
• Discussion of applications including drug/gene delivery, hydrogels, adhesives, and self-healing materials.

Main Results:

• Various synthetic routes provide control over polymerization degree and nucleobase functionality.
• Template polymerization offers a unique approach to synthesizing these polymers.
• Demonstrated potential in drug/gene delivery, supramolecular hydrogels, adhesives, and self-healing materials.

Conclusions:

• Nucleobase-functionalized polymers possess significant potential for sophisticated biomedical uses.
• Further research is needed to overcome current limitations and broaden applications.
• Continued development is crucial for realizing the full capabilities of these versatile materials.