Location History:
- Urbana, IL (US) (2020)
- Champaign, IL (US) (2014 - 2022)
Company Filing History:
8 out of 2,355 
2 out of 3,400 
1 out of 4,658 
Years Active: 2014-2025
Title: Innovations and Contributions of Steven C. Zimmerman
Introduction
Steven C. Zimmerman is a prominent inventor based in Champaign, Illinois. He has made significant contributions to the field of chemistry, particularly in the development of degradable polymers and therapeutic oligomers. With a total of eight patents to his name, Zimmerman's work has the potential to impact various industries, including materials science and medicine.
Latest Patents
One of Zimmerman's latest patents focuses on degradable polymers and monomers, specifically hydroxyacetal or hydroxyketal monomers. This invention outlines processes for their preparation and their use in producing degradable polymers. The innovation avoids the energy-intensive conditions typically required to degrade polyurethanes, generating new hydroxy-functional intermediates that can be repurposed or upcycled. This technology allows materials like polyurethanes and melamines, which would otherwise end up in landfills, to have a second life. Another notable patent involves a multivalent ligand for myotonic dystrophy. This invention addresses the abnormally long r(CUG)n repeat expansion, which is a major cause of Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1). The rational design of oligomers with alternating bisamidine and melamine structures resulted in a strong binding affinity to the RNA target, demonstrating excellent activity in disrupting nuclear foci and reversing mis-splicing in DM1 models.
Career Highlights
Zimmerman has had a distinguished career, working at the University of Illinois and Rohm and Haas Company. His research has led to groundbreaking advancements in both polymer chemistry and medical applications. His innovative approaches have garnered attention and respect within the scientific community.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Zimmerman has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Chun-Ho Wong and Paul Joseph Hergenrother. These collaborations have further enriched his research and contributed to the success of his inventions.
Conclusion
Steven C. Zimmerman is a remarkable inventor whose work in degradable polymers and therapeutic oligomers showcases his commitment to innovation. His contributions have the potential to create sustainable solutions and improve the quality of life for individuals affected by diseases like Myotonic dystrophy.