Research

Defined Function from Precision Synthesis: Poly(ylides) as a New Class of Functional Polymers

Zwitterionic polymers are ahighly hydrophilic polymers with widespread applications in the field of medicine and nanotechnology. To this end, zwitterionic polymers are mainly classified in two categories, namely polybetaine and polyampholytes. In recent work, we have shown that polymeric ylides offer not only antifouling but also bactericidal properties. We aim to broaden the chemical space of zwitterionic polymers by adding poly(ylides) as third class of zwitterionic polymers to the chemical toolbox.

From Chemo- to Site-selectivity: Precision Synthesis for Peptide- and Protein Chemistry

Our group has an interest in developing new sorts of ligation techniques that allow to access otherwise inaccessible protein structures. We utilise our background in organic chemistry and peptide chemistry for tackling this interdisciplinary challenges. In this context, we have a major interest in developing new tools and building blocks that advance the field of peptide and protein chemistry. In 2023, we have introduced Click’n lock as a new principle in peptide and protein chemistry combining reversible and irreversible chemistry, the best of two worlds. This concept was successfully applied to the cyclisation of peptides.

Drug Delivery and In-situ Drug Synthesis

A key interest for the treatment of many diseases is the selective delivery of drugs to targets of interest such as tumor tissues without unspecific off-targeting, which often results in severe side effects. This part of our research focuses on an alternative approach, namely the in-vivo synthesis of drug molecules from small drug fragments directly at the site of interest. Macromolecules are an essential component of nanomedicine, not only for the construction of nano-devices but also for the decoration with chemical functionalities. Such highly functionalized polymers can be utilized as targeting moieties, multivalent ligands and biomimicking scaffolds. Our research focus is on the design and synthesis of macromolecules that enable new technologies in the field of nanomedicine.