Folding Dendrimers: Driving Macromolecular Self-Organization With Intramolecular Hydrogen-Bonding and Packing Interactions

Ohio State University Research Foundation -Do Not Use, Columbus OH

Investigators

Abstract

The focus of this research involves dendrimeric molecules. Understanding the effect of global/local cooperativity in dendrimer folding, evaluation of the effect of aqueous media on the folding properties of dendrimers, correlation of peptide helicity and dendrimer folding, transferring chirality from the central core to the periphery of a dendrimer,and, interconverting global conformations with light will be the specific goals of the project. With this award, the Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry Program is supporting the research of Dr. Jonathan R. Parquette of the Department of Chemistry at the Ohio State University. Dr. Parquette will focus his work on the control of the folding process of a synthetic dendrimer by understanding how various elements of structural order cooperate to create a compact, three- dimensional structure. The project has potential broad impact for nanotechnology and provides an excellent venue for the interdisciplinary training of students at the undergraduate and graduate level.