Modulating the properties of conjugated systems towards bioelectronics and bio-imaging
File(s)
Author(s)
Foote, James Edward John
Type
Thesis
Abstract
Conjugated polymers are key targets for both novel biomaterials and imaging agents due to their unique conductivity, biocompatibility and photostability. Despite this, their translation to clinical applications has been limited due to a number of drawbacks. The first half of this thesis focusses on addressing three key issues that introduce a barrier to clinical applications. Chapter 2 focusses on the synthesis of a fully conjugated, degradable monomeric unit that can be readily incorporated into conjugated polymer syntheses to allow the production of fully degradable conjugated polymers. The focus being the ready production of renally clearable conjugated polymer nanoparticles (CPN’s) to address concerns surrounding bioaccumulation and toxicity. Chapter 3 focusses on side chain engineering of conjugated polymers. Specifically, the production of self-doped conjugated polymers and the production of branch co polymers from a core conjugated polymer to allow ready tuning of mechanical properties and the processability of the polymers. The second half of this thesis continues the theme of conjugated systems, however, focusses on their unique characteristics as small molecule vibrational tags. In Chapter 4 work is shown synthesising small molecule, water soluble and multiplexable Raman
tagging moieties which are capable of bio-conjugation through a functional handle. Initial results displaying their future applicability to diagnostics are shown through chemical functionalisation of antibodies with these systems. Chapter 5 builds on this work, displaying initial synthetic attempts to form supramolecular, water soluble and multiplexable Raman tags. This methodology is hypothesised to display enhanced stability allowing future applications in-vivo.
tagging moieties which are capable of bio-conjugation through a functional handle. Initial results displaying their future applicability to diagnostics are shown through chemical functionalisation of antibodies with these systems. Chapter 5 builds on this work, displaying initial synthetic attempts to form supramolecular, water soluble and multiplexable Raman tags. This methodology is hypothesised to display enhanced stability allowing future applications in-vivo.
Version
Open Access
Date Issued
2023-03
Date Awarded
2023-06
Advisor
Stevens, Molly
Sponsor
Rosetrees Trust
Publisher Department
Materials
Publisher Institution
Imperial College London
Qualification Level
Doctoral
Qualification Name
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)