Reversible Solubility Switching of a Polymer Triggered by Visible-Light Responsive Azobenzene Photochromism with Negligible Thermal Relaxation.
Macromol Rapid Commun
; : e2400419, 2024 Aug 08.
Article
em En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-39116444
ABSTRACT
This study reports the reversible solubility switching of a polymer triggered by non-phototoxic visible light. A photochromic polymerizable azobenzene monomer with four methoxy groups at the ortho-position (mAzoA) was synthesized, exhibiting reversible photoisomerization between trans- and cis-states using green (546 nm) and blue light (436 nm). Free radical copolymerization of hydrophilic dimethylacrylamide (DMAAm) with mAzoA produced a light-responsive random copolymer (P(mAzoA-r-DMAAm)) that shows a reversible photochromic reaction to visible light. Optimizing mAzoA content resulted in P(mAzoA10.7-r-DMAAm)3.0 kDa exhibiting LCST-type phase separation in PBS (pH 7.4) with trans- and cis-states at 39.2 °C and 32.9 °C, respectively. The bistable temperature range of 6.3 °C covers 37 °C, suitable for mammalian cell culture. Reversible solubility changes were demonstrated under alternating green and blue light at 37 °C. 1H NMR indicated significant retardation of thermal relaxation from cis- to trans-states, preventing undesired thermal mechanical degradation. Madin Darby Canine Kidney (MDCK) cells adhered to the P(mAzoA-r-DMAAm) hydrogel, confirming its non-cytotoxicity and potential for biocompatible interfaces. This principle is useful for developing hydrogels that can reversibly stimulate cells mechanically or chemically in response to visible light.
Texto completo:
1
Coleções:
01-internacional
Base de dados:
MEDLINE
Idioma:
En
Revista:
Macromol Rapid Commun
/
Macromol. rapid commun. (Internet)
/
Macromolecular rapid communications (Internet)
Ano de publicação:
2024
Tipo de documento:
Article
País de afiliação:
Japão
País de publicação:
Alemanha