Background

The growing demand for biofunctionalized polymer materials in fields such as drug delivery and diagnostics requires precise control over polymer properties. However, current reagents for Reversible Addition Fragmentation chain Transfer (RAFT) polymerization struggle with achieving the necessary biocompatibility and customization for these advanced applications. This creates an urgent need for alternative solutions that offer enhanced control, functionality, and scalability in polymer synthesis.

OSU researchers have developed novel RAFT agents that enable precise control over the synthesis of biofunctionalized polymer materials using controlled radical polymerization. This breakthrough technology produces polymers with improved biocompatibility, hydrophilicity, and biodegradability, making them highly stable in complex biological environments. The RAFT agents can be customized with various probes and ligands, allowing for selective targeting and delivery to specific disease states, making it well-suited for specialized biomedical applications. Additionally, it supports sustainable, scalable production, offering a cost-effective solution for creating high-performance polymers across various industries.

• Robust stability and functionality
• Versatile polymer architectures
• Disease-specific functionalization
• Cost-effective production methods

Applications

• Targeted drug delivery and controlled release
• Diagnostic and reporting probes
• Biocompatible coatings