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Synthesis and Characterization of Amphipatic Polymers

Award Information
Agency: Department of Health and Human Services
Branch: National Institutes of Health
Contract: N/A
Agency Tracking Number: 2R44GM060071-02
Amount: $0.00
Phase: Phase I
Program: SBIR
Solicitation Topic Code: N/A
Solicitation Number: N/A
Timeline
Solicitation Year: N/A
Award Year: 2001
Award Start Date (Proposal Award Date): N/A
Award End Date (Contract End Date): N/A
Small Business Information
1280 DUSSEL DR
MAUMEE, OH 43537
United States
DUNS: N/A
HUBZone Owned: No
Woman Owned: No
Socially and Economically Disadvantaged: No
Principal Investigator
 MELVIN KEYES
 () -
Business Contact
Phone: (419) 891-3030
Research Institution
N/A
Abstract

DESCRIPTION: (provided by applicant) Ainphipols are low molecular weight (<20
kDa) linear polymers having a distribution of polar and hydrophobic side chains
which confers amphipaticity to the polymer. Amphipols represent a unique way of
solubilizing integral membrane proteins. Amphipols wrap themselves around the
hydrophobic transmembrane domains of membrane proteins so that the hydrophobic
side chains of the polymer stabilize the hydrophobic surface of the protein,
while the polar side chains of the polymer confer aqueous solubility to the
protein-amphipol complex

In Phase I a new and simpler route to the only existing family of amphipols was
developed and an entirely new and potentially useful family of amphipols was
discovered. In Phase II we plan to synthesize and characterize a number of
variations of this family (called PMALT). These new molecules will be evaluated
in the laboratory of Dr. Charles R. Sanders for their ability to solublize,
stabilize, and maintain the functionality of membrane proteins. The study will
provide the basis for future unique applications of amphipols in structural
biology biochemistries, biomedicine, and biotechnology.
PROPOSED COMMERCIAL APPLICATION:
The possibility of using the materials proposed here to study membrane protein
structure in solution via NMR is especially appearing. Amphipols may also provide
the basis for new approaches in drug delivery, biosensors, and other biomedical/
technological applications. Presently, there is no commercial source for amphipol-
class polymers. Anatrace has a history of timely introduction of new, useful
detergent and other biochemicals to the international technical community.

* Information listed above is at the time of submission. *

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