Block copolypeptides prepared by N-carboxyanhydride ring-opening polymerization

Abstract

N-Carboxyanhydride ring-opening polymerization (NCA ROP) is a synthetically straightforward methodology to generate homopolypeptides. Extensive control over the polymerization permits the production of highly monodisperse synthetic polypeptides to a targeted molecular weight in the absence of unfavorable side reactions. Sequential NCA ROP permits the creation of block copolypeptides composed of individual polypeptide blocks boasting different functionalities, secondary structures, and desirable chemical properties. Consequently, a plethora of novel materials have been generated that have found wide-range applicability. This review offers an insight into contemporary synthetic approaches toward NCA ROP before highlighting a number of block copolypeptide architectures generated.