Studies on DNA-functionalized diblock copolymers in bulk state

Abstract

Studies on self-assembly of block copolymer have been developed for a few decades, in the meantime DNA block copolymers are newly emerging functional hybrid polymers which are known to have less self-assembly structures compared to usual block copolymers. DNA diblock copolymers are block copolymers composed of one block of DNA and the other of polymer. It is well-known to have amphiphilic characteristic and complementary binding properties forming micelles, tubes, and rod like structure. However, self-assembly structures such as lamella or cylinder in DNA block copolymers are not found yet. In this thesis, we report the synthesis and characterization of DNA-b-Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) and characterize unknown morphology or structure changes. We report on self-assembly structure and physical properties changes in bulk state not in solution state. This approach offers new structures of DNA block copolymers.