The University of Akron

Gang Cheng

Bin Cao

Qiong Tang

In one or more embodiments, the present invention provides a method of forming compact, flexible, stable and biocompatible conducting polymer coating for bioelectronics devices. In one or more embodiments, the present invention relates to a novel method of synthesizing a sulfobetaine-functionalized conjugated polymer platform using 3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT) as the conducting backbone (SBEDOT). This SBEDOT monomer is highly water-soluble and can be directly polymerized to form a densely packed film/coating on conductive or semi-conductive surfaces through electro-polymerization in a 100% aqueous solution without the need for organic solvents or surfactants. These polySBEDOT (PSBEDOT) coated surfaces have been shown to have electro-switchable antimicrobial/antifouling properties and excellent electrically conducting properties, which minimize infection, increase biocompatibility, and improve the performance of bioelectronics.

Method for electropolymerization of hydrophilic EDOT monomers in an aqueous solution

Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to switchable carboxybetaine-based polymers, hydrogels, and/or elastomers, along with novel related monomers, crosslinkers, and methods. Under acidic conditions, the materials undergo self-cyclization and can catch and kill bacteria. Under neutral/basic conditions, these materials undergo ring-opening and can release killed bacterial cells and resist protein adsorption and bacterial attachment. These smart polymers, hydrogels and elastomers also show excellent mechanical properties making them highly desirable for many biomedical applications.

Switchable antimicrobial and antifouling carboxybetaine-based hydrogels and elastomers with enhanced mechanical properties

The present invention is directed to a versatile and high performance zwitterionic CP platform, which integrates all desired functions into one material. This zwitterionic CP consists of the conducting backbone and multifunctional zwitterionic side chains. Non-conducting zwitterionic materials gain electronic conductivity through the conducting backbone and CPs obtain excellent biocompatibility, sensitivity to environmental stimuli and controllable antifouling properties via multifunctional zwitterionic side chains. Unique properties from two distinct materials (conducting materials and zwitterionic materials) are integrated into one material without sacrificing any properties. This platform can potentially be adapted for a range of applications (e.g. bioelectronics, tissue engineering, wound healing, robotic prostheses, biofuel cell, etc.), which all require high performance conducting materials with excellent antifouling/biocompatibility at complex biointerfaces. This conducting material platform will significantly advance the development of conducting polymers in the field of biomedicine and biotechnology.

Integrated zwitterionic conjugated polymers for bioelectronics, biosensing, regenerative medicine, and energy applications

One or more embodiments of the present invention provide a novel composition for gene delivery are directed to a group of polysaccharide polymers, having one or more nucleic acid delivery side chains comprising cationic peptides. In some embodiments, these cationic peptides condense and physically bond to one or more nucleic acids to form a polysaccharide-nucleic acid complex that permits delivery to and transfection of the nucleic acid(s) into cells. In some embodiments, the polysaccharide polymers of the present invention may also have one or more zwitterionic side chains and/or reactive side chains.

Dextran-peptide hybrid for efficient gene delivery

A high drug loading system is described comprising of at least one anticancer drug; at least one peptide; and at least one nucleic acid.

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Fairlawn, OH, United States of America

Gang Cheng