Homopolymer self-assembly of poly(propylene sulfone) hydrogels via dynamic noncovalent sulfone-sulfone bonding

Nat Commun. 2020 Sep 29;11(1):4896. doi: 10.1038/s41467-020-18657-5.

Abstract

Natural biomolecules such as peptides and DNA can dynamically self-organize into diverse hierarchical structures. Mimicry of this homopolymer self-assembly using synthetic systems has remained limited but would be advantageous for the design of adaptive bio/nanomaterials. Here, we report both experiments and simulations on the dynamic network self-assembly and subsequent collapse of the synthetic homopolymer poly(propylene sulfone). The assembly is directed by dynamic noncovalent sulfone-sulfone bonds that are susceptible to solvent polarity. The hydration history, specified by the stepwise increase in water ratio within lower polarity water-miscible solvents like dimethylsulfoxide, controls the homopolymer assembly into crystalline frameworks or uniform nanostructured hydrogels of spherical, vesicular, or cylindrical morphologies. These electrostatic hydrogels have a high affinity for a wide range of organic solutes, achieving >95% encapsulation efficiency for hydrophilic small molecules and biologics. This system validates sulfone-sulfone bonding for dynamic self-assembly, presenting a robust platform for controllable gelation, nanofabrication, and molecular encapsulation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Alkenes / chemistry
  • Hydrogels / chemical synthesis*
  • Hydrogels / chemistry
  • Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Interactions
  • Polypropylenes / chemical synthesis*
  • Polypropylenes / chemistry
  • Static Electricity
  • Sulfones / chemistry*

Substances

  • Alkenes
  • Hydrogels
  • Polypropylenes
  • Sulfones
  • propylene