Process for the Preparation of Linear, Methylated Polyglycerol Derivatives and Their Use for Surface Functionalization

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

The patent describes a method for producing linear, methylated polyglycerol derivatives through an anionic ring-opening polymerization of glycidyl methyl ether. These polymers, with well-defined structures and low polydispersity, are used to coat and functionalize various surfaces, providing those surfaces with strong protein-repellent properties. The invention is particularly valuable for uses requiring biocompatibility and prevention of biofilm formation.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Coating of medical devices such as catheters, stents, implants, bone plates, and artificial heart valves to prevent protein and bacterial adhesion.
• Surface modification of biosensors that contact body fluids, improving their reliability and lifespan.
• Application as anti-biofouling coatings in optical products, such as contact lenses.
• Use in filtration technology as protein-resistant filter materials.
• Preparation of surfaces for specific biomolecule immobilization while suppressing non-specific protein binding, useful in diagnostics and bioanalytical devices.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Demonstrates excellent resistance to non-specific protein adsorption, surpassing existing materials like polyethylene glycol (PEG) coatings, especially in stability against oxidation.
• Improves biocompatibility of surfaces, reducing the risk of immune reactions or biofilm-related complications.
• Simple and cost-effective polymer synthesis process, using non-toxic starting materials and scalable for industrial production.
• Enhanced longevity of protein-resistance effects, maintaining functionality even after prolonged exposure to challenging environments.
• Versatile end-group chemistry allows for further functionalization, enabling both resistance and targeted biomolecule attachment as required.

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Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a process for preparing linear , methylated polyglycerol derivatives which are based on glycidyl methyl ether and have a defined structure and have a degree of polymerization of from 1 to 1000 and narrow molar mass distributions determined by GPC (gel permeation chromatography) and polydispersities of less than 2, preferably less than 1.1 (PS standard), by ring-opening anionic polymerization of the glycidyl methyl ether in the presence of a hydrogen-active starter compound and a basic catalyst. In particular, the invention relates to polymers of the general formula I. The invention also provides for the use of these linear, methylated polyglycerol derivatives for functionalizing any surfaces. Thus, surfaces which have a coating comprising the novel polyglycerol derivatives have excellent protein-resistant properties.