Supramolecular polymers are materials composed of monomeric units held together by non-covalent interactions (ionic, aromatic, hydrogen-bonding, hydrophobic effects, metal-ligand, host-guest chemistry, etc.). Supramolecular polymers differ from typical synthetic polymers in that covalent bonds are not necessary for polymerization. Instead, each monomer is rationally designed with the ability to self-assemble into high-order structure.
Advantages of supramolecular polymers can include: (1) Diversity of monomers used include small molecules, peptides, DNA, sugars and hybrids among others, (2) Reversible structures that can be triggered by external stimuli such as ionic strength, pH and/or temperature, (3) Formation of complex nanostructures structures like fibers, spheres, ribbons, sheets and tubes. Such materials have shown to have vast applications in the field of nanotechnology, regenerative medicine, drug delivery and electronics. The Rubert lab specializes in designing unique peptide sequences and small molecules as monomer units to promote the formation of functional supramolecular polymers for applications in cell culture, anti-bacterial properties and catalysis using aromatic (π-π and π-cation interactions), salt-bridges and metal-ligand interactions as the main driving force for self-assembly.
