Simultaneous and reversible functionalization of copolymers for biological applications

Monomers were coplymerized in different ratios by ATRP (atom transfer radical polymerization), where the reactivity of the functional groups were specific to thiols and amines. These polymers can be quantitatively substituted in one pot or by a sequential addition strategy and is independent of the order of addition. These two functionalities were chosen due to the fact that these are two of the most commonly seen reactive functionalities in biology. It was also shown that the disulfide linkages could be used for the reversible incorporation of a molecule. The versatility of the polymers and the simplicity of the methodology by which these can be prepared are likely to enhance the repertoire of synthetic polymer chemistry in biological applications.