Efficient synthesis of linear multifunctional poly(ethylene glycol) by copper(I)-catalyzed Huisgen 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition

Biomacromolecules. 2007 Sep;8(9):2653-8. doi: 10.1021/bm070430i. Epub 2007 Aug 10.

Abstract

Poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) is a versatile biocompatible polymer. Improvement of its limited functionality (two chain termini) may significantly expand its current applications. In this communication, a simple and yet highly efficient strategy for the synthesis of linear multifunctional PEGs with "click" chemistry is reported. A short acetylene-terminated PEG was linked by 2,2-bis(azidomethyl)propane-1,3-diol using Cu(I)-catalyzed Huisgen 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition in water at room temperature. High-molecular-weight PEGs with pendant hydroxyl groups were obtained and characterized by 1H NMR and size-exclusion chromatography. A prototype bone-targeting polymeric drug delivery system was also successfully synthesized based on this new method. It demonstrates strong biomineral-binding ability and the ease of incorporating therapeutic agents into the delivery system. This simple "click" reaction approach provides a useful tool for the development of novel functional polymers and their conjugates for biomedical applications.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Catalysis
  • Copper / chemistry*
  • Molecular Structure
  • Polyethylene Glycols / chemical synthesis*

Substances

  • Polyethylene Glycols
  • Copper