Abstract
Critical to numerous cellular activities and the target for over 70% of pharmeucticals, undoubtedly an ability to harness the power of membrane proteins (MPs) represents a significant asset for future technology. Yet, structures of MPs remain elusive, largely attributed to ineffective detergent-based methods for extraction. Novel copolymers between styrene and maleic acid now promise to rival these proceedures. However, as research turns to take advantage of modern polymerisation techniques, whilst emphasising shortcomings to our interpretation, fresh opperunities have come to light.Herein reports a novel p(styrene-alt-maleic acid-homo-styrene) derivative capable of nanodisc formation with model membranes. Thiocarbonylthio end groups of RAFT-made polymers were replaced with more polar cyanoisopropyl groups. This both disrupted aggregate formation and influenced nanodisc beahviour, potentially expanding the range of extractable membrane proteins.
| Date of Award | 2019 |
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| Original language | English |
| Awarding Institution |
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| Sponsors | Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council |
| Supervisor | Karen Edler (Supervisor) & Gareth Price (Supervisor) |