Low fouling polymers play an important role in moderating interactions of dissolved molecules and particles with cells. In the pharmaceutical sciences they are essential tools for extending pharmacokinetics of dissolved drugs. However, the widely-used low-fouling polymer, poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) is coming under increasing scrutiny due to observation of anti-PEG antibodies. Alternatives to PEG are desperately needed. We introduce in this project super-hydrophilic polymers incorporating sulfoxide groups, indeed mimics of the solvent DMSO. The project will explore how molecular architecture can be manipulated to enhance biocompatibility. This project, funded with $430k from the Australian Research Council aims to develop a new class of low-fouling polymeric materials.
